Prime Minister Andy Burnham has outlined a series of housing policy measures at the Labour Party Conference. These include reforms to first-time buyer schemes, leasehold legislation, and new powers for local authorities to address empty and substandard properties.
In his first conference speech as Prime Minister, Mr Burnham announced the 'Your First Home' scheme, which is intended to reduce deposit requirements for first-time buyers. He also pledged to grant councils powers to take control of empty homes and return them to public housing stock. Landlords renting out low-quality accommodation will reportedly receive warnings to improve properties or face acquisition by local authorities.
Mr Burnham committed to introducing leasehold reform legislation before Christmas. He stated, "To the millions of leaseholders, you have my word, the days of you being squeezed for every penny are coming to an end." This follows the government's earlier confirmation of mandatory licensing for property agents.
The government also plans to increase council home construction and reform the Right to Buy scheme, with a 10-year housing plan expected to be published later this year.