"Housing Secretary Steve Reed says his job should be "on the line" over a pledge to build 1.5 million new homes in England - but two leading experts have told BBC Panorama the government looks set to miss its target. Prof Paul Cheshire, who has advised previous governments on planning policy, said there was "absolutely no way" it would succeed."
"But Reed insisted he would "absolutely" meet the goal and told Panorama the widespread scepticism would make "celebration all the sweeter" when he hit it. The promise to build the homes over the next Parliament, which is due to run until 2029, was a cornerstone of Labour's manifesto. "My job should be on the line if I fail to meet my target," Reed said. "I expect to be held to account.""
The government pledged to build 1.5 million new homes in England over the next Parliament, to run until 2029. Housing Secretary Steve Reed says his job should be on the line if the target is not met and insists he will absolutely achieve the goal. Experts including Prof Paul Cheshire and industry representative Neil Jefferson warn the target looks set to be missed, citing current housebuilding at about 200,000 homes a year rather than the required 300,000. Factors affecting delivery include a cumbersome planning process, environmental regulations, skill shortages, local councillor decision-making and fierce opposition to local plans.
Read at www.bbc.com
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