Izzy Lepone 13 May 2025

Skyrocketing Right to Buy applications threaten social housing projects

Skyrocketing Right to Buy applications threaten social housing projects image
Clare Louise Jackson / Shutterstock.com.

A recent rise in Right to Buy (RTB) applications is putting pressure on councils attempting to deliver affordable social housing, the LGA warns.

Local authorities reported that RTB applications increased by up to 100 times last autumn following Chancellor Rachel Reeves's announcement about reducing tenants’ discounts when purchasing their council-owned properties under the Government scheme.

The LGA has prompted the Government to ‘ensure that the scheme is fit for purpose’ to prevent interference with councils’ current housing projects.

An LGA spokesperson commented: ‘Whilst there will be positive longer-term benefits of the discount levels in stemming the continued loss of stock, the short-term impact is a spike in the sale of desperately needed social homes. This will further exacerbate the homelessness challenges that councils are working hard to address.’

‘Councils are keen to work with the Government to deliver the social homes our communities need and help relieve the financial pressures that the current shortage is placing on councils.’

Black hole spending review image

Black hole spending review

Jonathan Werran, chief executive of Localis, reflects on what the Spending Review means for local government.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Culture

Royal Borough of Greenwich
£81435 - £86505 per annum + n/a
Head of CultureThe Royal Borough of Greenwich understands that culture is one of our greatest strengths and is key to delivering the Our Greenwich mis England, London, Woolwich
Recuriter: Royal Borough of Greenwich

Social Worker - Children in Care, North Essex

Essex County Council
Up to £0.0000 per annum
Social Worker - Children in Care, North EssexPermanent, Full Time£37,185 to £50,081 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Applications Developer

Essex County Council
Up to £500 per day
Senior Applications DeveloperContract
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Project Delivery Team Leader

Transport Scotland
£57,710 - £71,842
Are you an experienced Chartered Civil Engineer (or equivalent professional qualification). Glasgow City
Recuriter: Transport Scotland

Project Delivery Senior Team Leader

Transport Scotland
£74,480 - £85,964
Are you an experienced Chartered Civil Engineer (or equivalent professional qualification) Glasgow City
Recuriter: Transport Scotland
Linkedin Banner