RIBA President, Muyiwa Oki said:
“With over a million households on social housing waiting lists, today’s long-term investment to deliver new homes is very welcome. This £39 billion 10-year settlement is a step towards delivering the homes we desperately need. However, ensuring that a significant proportion of new homes are for social rent is crucial.
But money alone isn’t enough. Alongside these positive measures, we need radical change to enable local authorities to build and retain social housing stock. As such, we urge the government to pilot new models for the delivery of social housing, like the one outlined in our report, Foundations for the Future.
Good transport links, easy access to public services, and green spaces are also vitally important to creating places where people want to live. Today’s settlement for transport infrastructure is therefore welcome.
Architects are uniquely placed to help turn the government’s ambitions for growth and renewal into reality. But if we are to deliver high-quality, energy efficient buildings and places which are adaptable and resilient, we need a pipeline of talent. Ensuring the profession is diverse and competent for generations to come requires funding for architectural education and apprenticeships.
We are ready to work with the government to help deliver its plan for growth by improving the built environment across the country. Today’s announcement brings us closer to that shared goal.”
Notes to editors:
- Media contact: Nancy.Ludwig@riba.org
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on X/Twitter for regular updates.
