Small builders key to delivering 1.5 million housing target, says FMB

Following the prime minister's ‘Plan for Change’ speech yesterday (5th December), in which he admitted the new homes goal may be "a little too ambitious," the FMB has expressed its support whilst claiming that SME housebuilders and addressing the construction skills gap will be key to meeting this target.

Brian Berry, chief executive at the FMB, commented: “The FMB fully supports the ambitions of the Government in delivering a major increase in the UK’s housebuilding rates.

“However, we have also been clear the goal of building 1.5 million homes over the next five years will simply not be viable without significant steps to tackle the ongoing construction skills crisis; diversify the housing market from a small number of volume housebuilders; and ensure substantial planning reforms are rolled out.”

Brian continued: “The challenge the UK faces in tackling the housing crisis is immense, and it is particularly pleasing to hear the Prime Minister re-commit to housing targets, alongside pledging support for new major infrastructure projects.

“However, this must be delivered in a way which benefits and supports the entire construction industry, including SMEs, if they are going to deliver on their aims.

“Local builders stand ready to deliver growth and the FMB looks forward to seeing the plans laid out in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill in the coming months.”