The Government’s pledge to make more land available in all areas will help local housebuilders struggling to find sites, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), in response to the pre-Spending Review housing announcement from HM Treasury.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “This commitment by the Government to make more land available is welcome news for the smallest developers, 63% of which are limited in their ability to build the homes needed by a lack of available and viable land. It’s important that more small sites are unlocked in all communities as local builders often deliver fewer than 10 homes at a time, but to the highest quality and to local need.”

Berry concluded: “It is encouraging that the FMB’s calls for investment in the planning system have been answered. Digitisation must make the system simpler and faster, and free up planners’ time to support the smallest firms navigate the often complicated planning process.”

Notes to editors

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.

The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers. 

 

Related topics