RIBA President Ben Derbyshire said:
“Today’s report by the National Audit Office (NAO) echoes the RIBA’s serious concerns about our planning system and calls on the government to change tack in order to address the housing crisis.
The NAO’s report spells out just how lucrative government policy has been for large housebuilders and how costly it has been for communities due to a lack of investment in infrastructure.
While we have seen some positive moves over the past year, including the decision to lift the borrowing cap for Local Authorities and the move towards greater transparency around viability assessments, we desperately need a radical new approach.
The government must recognise the urgency for greater investment in the planning system and the vital link between housing and infrastructure in creating thriving communities where people want to live.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
1. For further press information contact Abigail.Chiswell-White@riba.org or 020 7307 3811
2. 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. Architecture.com Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
