The Chief Executives of London’s largest social housing providers joined a webinar to explore the findings of the G15 and Housing Today State of the Capital 2026 report.
The discussion brought together Ian McDermott, Chief Executive of Peabody and Chair of the G15, alongside the G15’s Vice-Chair Clare Miller (Clarion Housing Group), Fiona Fletcher Smith (L&Q), Mel Barrett (Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing) and Paul Hackett (Southern Housing), to examine the opportunities created by the new government and the practical reforms needed to increase the delivery of affordable housing in London.
A central theme throughout the discussion was the importance of building on the certainty provided by recent government decisions, including the 10 year rent settlement and the new Social and Affordable Homes Programme. Panellists agreed these reforms have created a stronger platform for investment but stressed that further action is needed if London is to deliver the homes the capital needs.
The conversation reflected a number of the recommendations set out in the State of the Capital report. The CEOs highlighted the case for completing London’s devolution settlement, giving the Mayor and the Greater London Authority greater freedom to make funding decisions that reflect London’s specific housing challenges, including tackling rough sleeping and investing in affordable homes. They also discussed the potential for greater fiscal devolution, including allowing London to retain a share of the revenue it generates to reinvest in housing and infrastructure.
The group also highlighted the importance of maintaining London’s contribution to national economic growth. High housing costs continue to limit the capital’s economic potential, making it harder for people to live and work in London and for employers to recruit the workforce they need.
The discussion explored practical changes that could unlock more affordable housing. Speakers called for housing associations to be involved earlier in Section 106 negotiations, greater flexibility over the profile of grant funding within the Affordable Homes Programme, and continued support for shared ownership through measures such as increasing eligibility caps in line with inflation and developing new low cost staircasing products. These proposals reflect recommendations set out in the report to improve delivery while making home ownership more accessible.
Partnership working was another strong theme throughout the webinar. Panellists highlighted the importance of close collaboration between housing associations, local authorities, the GLA, developers and investors, arguing that long term relationships and local decision making will be essential if government ambitions for housing delivery are to be achieved.
Looking ahead, speakers agreed that maintaining investor confidence will be critical. The long term rent settlement provides the certainty needed to attract patient capital, while stable regulation and consistent government policy will help housing associations continue to leverage private investment alongside public funding to deliver affordable homes.
Watch the full webinar
You can watch the webinar and hear the discussion in full by registering here.
