Out-Law News 1 min. read
31 May 2013, 2:49 pm
The HBF's latest Housing Pipeline Report (8-page / 681KB PDF) has found that planning permissions for 144,427 homes had been granted in the year to March 2013. This compared to permission for 118,723 homes in the year to March 2012.
The Government introduced the NPPF in March 2012. The framework sets out measures intended to boost the supply of housing such as a requirement for local authorities to demonstrate a five year housing supply with an additional buffer of up to 20% for under-performing authorities.
The HBF said that, although the increase was "undoubtedly" down to an increase in the number of applications submitted as a result of Government support measures and an improving mortgage market, it was also a reflection of the "positive planning principles" of the NPPF.
It also said that the increase was a result of the "robust appeal system" underpinning the NPPF, with an increase in the number of successful appeals in instances when the local authority has not met the requirements under the NPPF.
“The overall trend in residential permissions is very positive and hopefully reflects both the principles of the new planning system and an improving market place," said HBF executive chairman Stewart Baseley in a statement. "But we are still well short of the numbers needed and have to see continuous and steady increases over the coming quarters."
“The Government has unveiled some extremely positive measures aimed at boosting housing supply. The Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme is making a real difference on the demand side but it will only succeed in increasing house building if the planning system allows home builders to increase activity," Baseley said.
“Building the homes we need could take millions off social housing waiting lists and enable beleaguered first time buyers to get a foot on the ladder. It could also create half a million new jobs, and give the country a massive and much-needed economic boost,” he added.
