Concerns raised over Tories right to buy extension
Rico Wojtulewicz, HBA policy advisor, on the housing announcements contained in the Conservative manifesto said:
“The HBA wholeheartedly supports any attempt to increase housing stock but has concerns that the right to buy extension will place undue pressure on those stakeholders providing affordable rents and homes. Over the last five years, SME house builders have found it difficult to access funding and while the NPPF has identified possibilities it has also created frustrations for tangible opportunities.
The Conservative manifesto highlights a desire to encourage development of brownfield sites which is certainly welcome. However without any direct mention of SME house builders the HBA has reservations on whether brownfield will be accessible or even viable, especially when infrastructure need is considered.
The number of SME house builders is directly proportionate to the volume of completions. The HBA therefore hopes that the Conservative party keeps this in mind when the specifics behind their policy pledges are set out.”
