As the Labour Party gears up for its first occupation of Downing Street in fourteen years, housing policy must seize the spotlight, insists Propertymark.

Propertymark has emphasized the urgency for the forthcoming Government to prioritize housing from day one. With the UK population projected to hit around 70 million over the next decade, long-term strategic planning is imperative to maintain a sustainable housing supply.

Propertymark endorses Labour's ambitious plan to construct 1.5 million new homes in the upcoming parliamentary term. However, it underscores the necessity for judicious land use and the safeguarding of greenbelt zones. Strategic planning must adopt a 'community first' mindset to enhance selected locales.

All manifesto commitments need to be transparent and encompass a feasible timeline. Promises should be equitable and pragmatic, with explicit details on how housing investment will be underpinned.

The housing mix must account for diverse demographics. Propertymark calls for comprehensive schemes to support first-time buyers, tackling affordability head-on. Initiatives that facilitate homeownership would mark a positive stride.

Broader plans for the housing market and rental sector are equally essential. Stakeholder input and a long-term strategy aimed at benefiting future generations should be central.

Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, articulated: “Propertymark welcomes wide-ranging engagement with the new Labour government to help steer an objective pathway forward for the housing sector. We have seen a chronic undersupply of affordable new housing for many years.

“Sustainable housing is the foundation for any strong economy and there must be clear and well-thought-out plans that inspire investment and improve supply moving forward. We want to see long-term cross-party cooperation that delivers the right kind of homes in areas where they are desperately needed.”