Emma Duncan at the Times ( post 21 February) and Ed Balls (post 26 February) have both made their beliefs clear. clear in the last few days. That if the government is serious about solving the chronic housing crisis it should start talking to the opposition about a long term solution: so the main parties commit themselves to a common agenda that lasts beyond one parliament. So it has delighted me to read that the retired senior partner of Knight Frank, Alistair Elliott, who led a team of 16000 and 400 offices worldwide, and is now working as a non-executive for the Prince’s Council, Duchy of Cornwall and Grosvenor Estates also believes the way forward is a cross-party, long term housing strategy, (The Forum, UK Property Forums, Battle and Bunce Talking Property; podcast 21 February 2024).
During the new 25 minute podcast Alistair, with whom I enjoyed a business relationship for many years makes several good points. First about the need to seek and exploit brownfield sites, whilst not ruling out building in the countryside. Most of all, recognising that the government must take the lead whilst working with the private sector to ensure viability at every stage. I especially welcomed his emphasis on clusters to ensure flexibility to meet future needs, to offer a portfolio of future user choices. In his sensible words, it matters recognition property is expensive so it is therefore important not to rush at it, to avoid over promising as politicians sometimes do.
When the main parties election manifestos are published this year we will learn more about the calibre of these parties and their leaders., We are at a cross-roads. Economic growth, productivity, zero carbon reductions, protection and promotion of much loved urban and rural areas all depend upon maximising political co-operation, winning local support for change to make homes affordable. These wins all depend upon cross-party support.
Ian Campbell
28 February 2024
