08 September 2020
The RIBA has today responded to Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick’s, £12 billion pledge to build new affordable housing.
RIBA President, Alan Jones, said:
“While the acceleration of England’s Affordable Homes Programme is welcome, today’s ‘boost’ does not do enough to help the 1.15 million households on social housing waiting lists.
If the government is serious about fulfilling its ‘levelling up’ agenda, it must tackle the severe shortage of council houses, by giving local authorities the power and resources they need to take the lead.
Alongside welcome plans to raise accessibility standards, the government must also look at how all new homes can meet the highest standards of design and sustainability.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- Press 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.
