Prime Minister Andy Burnham has hit the ground running with ambitious plans to end rough sleeping and bring rent controls back on the table – but critics are already lining up to question how he'll make it happen. At a time when housing is a top priority for many, Mr Burnham's vision is sparking both hope and concern in equal measure.
The lack of detail about his proposals has been seized upon by the opposition, with Conservative Shadow Housing Secretary Sir James Cleverly pointing out that Mr Burnham previously promised to end rough sleeping during his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester – but failed. "In Manchester, Burnham promised to end rough sleeping, but failed because he didn’t do the hard work necessary. Now, again, he is making pledges without any plan for delivery," Sir James said.
Despite criticism from critics, Mr Burnham's commitment to increasing council homes and introducing rent controls has been welcomed by some in the housing sector. Landlord licensing and property standards are also key components of his approach – a move that has sparked debate about the role of government intervention in regulating the private rented sector.
Ben Beadle, Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, noted Mr Burnham's "personal, and seemingly genuine, interest in housing and property standards," while Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, highlighted the need for the sector to engage with the government to ensure the delivery of 1.5 million homes across England. Justin Young, CEO of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, stated his organisation's readiness to work constructively with the new administration.
The housing sector will be watching closely as Mr Burnham's plans take shape – and it remains to be seen whether he can deliver on his promises without sacrificing detail for expediency. As one insider noted, "The proof of the pudding is in the eating" – and Mr Burnham has a tough road ahead if he wants to make his vision for housing a reality.