G15 Chair comments on the government's social housing policy announcements
Ian McDermott, Peabody CEO and Chair of G15, said:
“This package of measures is another important step in renewing the social housing system. Greater certainty on rents is extremely welcome, alongside clarity on new decency and energy efficiency standards. Crucially, the move towards greater rent fairness over time will help rebuild providers’ financial capacity and support sustained investment in both existing homes and new supply over the next decade.
The confirmation of £2.5 billion in low-interest loans to help accelerate the delivery of new social and affordable homes is positive, and we look forward to further detail in due course. We’ll also look closely at the new Section 106 guidance and welcome the Government’s clear intention to promote a more collaborative approach between the private sector and social housing providers.
Taken together, these reforms signal a very strong, partnership approach by government. We strongly support the proposed new compact and taskforce, which should be an opportunity for new ideas to reform, renew and strengthen the system for the long term. London’s housing crisis will continue to pose huge challenges, and our task now is to translate this policy and financial framework into lasting improvements in the quality, sustainability and supply of social housing.”