NALC calls on the government to stop letting developers delay

This week, we've renewed our call for the government to hold developers accountable and require them to build homes on land where planning permission has already been granted.

Responding to the government's technical consultation on implementing measures to improve build-out transparency​, we urged ministers to shift the focus of housing delivery tests. Rather than penalising parish and town councils for not meeting arbitrary housing targets, we want the pressure placed where it belongs, on developers sitting on approved plans and delaying much-needed construction.

We understand the need to build more homes, but we're not just building for the next five years. We are creating communities for the next 50, and the current system unfairly punishes local authorities while giving developers a free pass to land.

We want to see a developer-focused housing delivery test to ensure the timely build-out of approved sites, stronger powers for local planning authorities and councils to deliver affordable housing, more homes suitable for disabled residents and those with mobility impairments and a greater mix of housing tenures to meet diverse community needs.

We have made it clear that we support planning reforms that enhance democratic control, raise design standards, and ensure developments are well-placed and fit for purpose. But we will oppose any changes that weaken the system or sideline the local voice.