The industry has responded positively to the government’s announcement of seven proposed locations for a
new generation of new towns, marking a significant step forward in plans to
boost housing delivery across England.
RIBA welcomes the additional detail on the programme, including the focus on delivering affordable housing and creating well-connected communities.
New towns have the potential to play an important role in supporting long-term housing delivery, driving economic growth and connecting people to jobs, services and opportunities.
However, RIBA stresses that success will depend on ensuring these developments are underpinned by high-quality design, strong placemaking and the infrastructure needed to support thriving communities. Without a clear and consistent focus on design quality, there is a risk that new towns fail to meet the needs of residents over the long term.
Chris Williamson, RIBA President, said: “This is a welcome step forward in the government’s new towns programme, and we are pleased to see further detail on the proposed locations.
“New towns have real potential to support much-needed housing delivery and connect people to opportunities, jobs and services over the long-term, but only if they are well-designed – with high-quality homes, well-designed neighbourhoods, and the infrastructure and amenities people need to thrive.
“The emphasis on public transport, as well as walking and cycling infrastructure, is particularly encouraging, including proposals such as Tempsford, which is strategically located to connect key cities and support economic growth. But this must be matched by long-term funding and a clear commitment to good placemaking throughout the delivery of these new communities.
“We look forward to working with the government to ensure design quality is embedded at every stage of the programme.”
CIH chief executive Gavin Smart said that properly addressing our national housing crisis requires radical action.
“CIH supports the government’s ambition to bring forward seven new towns and recognises the progress made since the initial proposals for a larger number of sites,” he continued. “The focus on well-planned communities and a strong commitment to affordable housing, including social rent, is essential.
"The launch of a National Housing Bank, alongside additional subsidy to support lower-cost lending, is also a very positive step that could help unlock delivery at scale.
“Success will depend on effective delivery — ensuring ambitions are supported by sustained investment, strong partnerships, and a clear focus on genuinely affordable homes. We look forward to engaging with the consultation to help ensure these proposals deliver high-quality homes and thriving, inclusive communities.”
