Mike Brogan 28 April 2014

A prescription short of a remedy

It has been argued that Sir Terry Farrell CBE’s pending independent review of the UK’s built environment and (currently non-existent) architecture policy is long overdue given the last was conducted more than a decade ago - but it’s far from a silver bullet.

Sir Terry has stated that the review will be ‘relevant to some of the most pressing and important issues of our time like the shortage and affordability of housing’ which can be overcome using a new, improved, planning system that is proactive rather than reactive.

Yes, we must be proactive. Yes, we must change planning legislation to free up suitable land for house building. Yes, the procedures in place are no longer providing the flexibility required. But is it as simple as that? We’d argue it isn’t.

For those seeking guidance on how best to invest their money, or expand their existing portfolio of commercial or high-end properties, Farrell’s findings will no doubt be the blueprint for works long into the future.

But for many,the announcement serves only to reinforce but not address the ongoing issue of affordable homes for all:whether the ‘all’ be millionaires;those not so well off looking for the right size home in the right place; or those that have no resources whatsoever.

A review is certainly a step in the right direction but to say it is the solution so desperately required to remedy the current UK housing crisis is optimistic at best and foolhardy at worst.

A generalised, prescriptive plan will only support a few and it is vital that a solution is implemented which accounts for the individual needs of any given community by delivering a range of housing stock sustainably, and with a genuine long term benefit to those who live there.

Mike Brogan is chief executive of Re:allies and Procure Plus

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

PRINCIPAL TRANSPORT PLANNING OFFICER

Hull City Council
£43693 - £46731
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to join our team in Hull as a Principal Transport Planning Officer. Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire
Recuriter: Hull City Council

HIGHWAYS AND TRAFFIC ENGINEER - 4 POSTS

Hull City Council
£43693 - £46731
We have several exciting opportunities for suitably qualified Highways Civil Engineers and Traffic Engineers Wilson Centre, 1st floor, Hull HU1 2AG
Recuriter: Hull City Council

Strategic Director, Finance and Resources (S.151 Officer)

Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
£110,799 - £120,706
Blackburn with Darwen is a distinctive, welcoming and vibrant borough with a strong identity and a genuine buzz about the place. Blackburn, Lancashire
Recuriter: Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council

Residential Worker, Edge of Care Service

Durham County Council
Grade 7 £29,093 - £32,654 PAY AWARD PENDING
Join a Groundbreaking Team Supporting Families in Seaham Salary
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Bikeability Cycling Instructor

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £24,790 to £25,992 pro rata (Pay Award Pending)
The Road Safety Team are keen to recruit additional Casual Bikability Instructors to join our team of instructors delivering Bikeability cycle trainin Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner