RICS comments on Keir Starmer’s Labour Party Conference speech

RICS supports the declared intention to build 1.5 million new homes and establish a generation of new towns. Suggestions of reform to local planning laws, making development more accessible, are also promising. RICS goes further and calls for an evidence-led review of the Green Belt, and the investigation of 'brownfield' and 'greyfield' sites suggested in the speech is a step in the right direction.

Supposing these plans were put in place, Local Authorities' Planning Departments need full and proper resourcing to tackle backlogs, produce up-to-date plans, mitigate staff turnover, and ensure a properly functioning enforcement apparatus.

The skills agenda is a crucial element of developing a sustainable economy. The announcement of plans to create a National Wealth Fund and establish a series of new technical colleges could help fill significant skills gaps in the built environment.

RICS looks forward to continuing its dialogue with the parties ahead of the next General Election.

RICS Chief Executive Justin Young took part in a panel discussion on skills and sustainability in the built environment at the Labour Party conference. You can watch the recording of the discussion below: