The RIBA has responded to the White Paper published by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) detailing plans to transform the UK by spreading opportunity and prosperity all areas.
RIBA President, Simon Allford, said:
“This White Paper clearly recognises the built environment’s vital role in addressing economic inequality and shifting power closer to communities – particularly through the promised regeneration of 20 towns and cities. But these significant urban regeneration plans will fail to materialise without additional central funding or a realistic prospect of revenue raising powers being devolved. These plans will also rely on significant long-term investment in the planning system to get off the ground.
There are positive initiatives in the document but it is very clear that we require much more detail about how local communities will be supported to make the changes that can support growth across the country. In addition, too many of the policies announced in the White Paper will still require local areas to bid for short-term centrally controlled funding, making the task of developing joined up policy more challenging.
The Government is absolutely right to recognise the urgency and importance of delivering good housing options for older people, this must be actioned, alongside a plan to improve standards of existing homes, especially those that leave residents vulnerable to fuel poverty."
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- Media contact: Abigail.Chiswell-White@riba.org or +44 (0) 20 7307 3811.
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
