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UK Home Buyers Thwarted by System That Can’t Build Enough Houses

UK's housing shortage and local protectionism are dividing the nation, with a shortfall that some estimates place in the millions set to take center stage in local elections. Conservative leaders face obstacles from major property firms, and the planning system remains the biggest barrier to homeown

1 min read
  • UK housing shortage and local protectionism divide the nation where homeownership was once seen as a rite of passage.
  • A decade of budget cuts and too few people in local governments are preventing the approval of new homes.
  • Conservative leaders are facing obstacles from major property firms, while the government is facing divisions in its own ranks.
  • The number of residential development projects being granted permission has dropped to such levels the Home Builders Federation is warning housing supply may hit record lows.
  • The planning system remains the biggest barrier to homeownership in Britain, according to developer Henry Boot Plc's CEO.
UK Home Buyers Thwarted by System That Can’t Build Enough Houses
Government policy changes, a lack of funding and chronic understaffing are blamed for choking the country’s planning system
BloombergDamian Shepherd

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