Sadiq Khan hails ‘record-breaking’ GLA housebuilding statistics
Sadiq Khan has welcomed the latest “record-breaking” housebuilding statistics for London, while Conservatives have accused the mayor of failing to meet his promises.
Figures published today show that 12,546 affordable homes were started in the capital between March and December 2019 through Greater London Authority (GLA) programmes – compared with just 6,066 homes at the same point the year before.
City Hall said the mayor is on track to deliver his target of starting 17,000 new affordable homes in 2019/20, with 74% of the number reached.
At this stage in 2018/19, only 42% of Mr Khan’s 14,000 targeted homes had been started – though the goal was achieved thanks to a final quarter surge.
Of the 12,546 affordable homes started in London so far in 2019/20, 5,126 (41%) were for social rent or London Affordable Rent – Mr Khan’s social rent-approximate product.
A fifth (2,437) were started by councils, the GLA said.
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Mr Khan said: “Delivering the genuinely affordable homes that Londoners so desperately need has been one of my top priorities over the past four years.
“Therefore I’m delighted that today’s stats show we’re firmly on track to deliver our ambitious target of starting 17,000 genuinely affordable homes this year.
“Social housing plays a vital role in binding our city together and I’m proud that councils across London have bought into my vision and helped us deliver more genuinely affordable homes for Londoners than at any time since City Hall took responsibility for social housing.”
But the GLA Conservatives seized on the fact that just over 12,000 homes have been completed since Mr Khan became mayor in May 2016 despite 34,515 starts.
Only 2,668 of the homes completed have three or four bedrooms, the Conservatives added, accusing the mayor of “forcing families out of London”.
Andrew Boff, housing spokesperson for the GLA Conservatives, said: “With the mayor already failing to build anywhere near the number of homes he promised, this painfully slow progress on the properties he has managed to start will come as slap in the face to the countless Londoners who dream of owning their own home.
“There can be no doubt that Sadiq Khan’s housing record is now in tatters.”
Mr Khan’s office pointed out that the 17,000 affordable starts target is double the number achieved by previous Conservative mayor Boris Johnson during his last two years at City Hall combined.
Social rent, London Affordable Rent, London Living Rent and shared ownership homes are deemed affordable housing by the GLA.
Inside Housing Development Summit 2020
Inside Housing is pleased to join forces with Homes England and the LGA to introduce the Inside Housing Development Summit.
Taking place on 27-28 April 2020, the summit will gather together local authorities, housing associations, developers, fund managers and advisors for a Chatham House style event focussed on making new connections and exploring new delivery models.
The summit will take place over 28 hours, starting with an afternoon plenary on 27 April, an exclusive development site study tour to Northstowe, England's largest new town since Milton Keynes, followed by a business dinner.
The second day will provide opportunities to network with a range of senior Homes England and LGA staff including Nick Walkley, chief executive of Homes England and Mark Lloyd, chief executive of LGA.
You’ll also meet with leaders from across the development ecosystem and take part in group discussions to help you connect and explore new opportunities. All accommodation and meals will be provided within the fee.
Places for each stakeholder group are limited to ensure a balanced mix of participants and to make sure you leave with the relationships and leads you need.
Click here to book your place or for more information
