In response to the UK government’s latest Budget, Honor Barratt, CEO of Birchgrove, a leading provider of rented retirement homes, expressed strong support for increased investment in the planning system. “There’s no doubt our planning system needs investment,” she stated, adding that the government’s decision to prioritise resources for local planning authorities could bring “benefits for all of us who need somewhere to call home.” Barratt highlighted the challenging environment faced by planning authorities, describing it as “incredibly hostile” for those working in public service. She believes that investment in planning teams could improve working conditions and result in a more effective system to address the country’s pressing housing needs.
The Budget’s focus on increasing housebuilding and affordable housing also received Barratt’s endorsement. While acknowledging the importance of affordable and social housing, Barratt pointed to another critical concern: the lack of housing tailored for people in later life. “This country has a similarly pressing issue with the lack of housing suitable for people in later life,” she noted. Barratt proposed that at least 10% of new developments should be allocated to Integrated Retirement Communities (IRCs), aligning these with existing affordable housing quotas. She elaborated, “The government has a target to build 1.5 million new homes, so we would hope that 150,000 of these homes would be in IRCs.”
Barratt’s remarks underscore a call for a balanced approach to housing policy that not only meets the need for affordable homes but also addresses the specific needs of an ageing demographic. As the government moves forward with its housing agenda, Barratt’s perspective highlights the importance of diverse housing solutions across age groups to ensure a future where everyone has a suitable place to call home.
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