Support for building new homes locally is almost twice as high as opposition across the UK, according to new research from Barclays Property Insights. The study found that 43% of UK adults support new homes being built within three miles of where they live, while 22% oppose such development.
Younger adults show the strongest support, with 51% of Gen Z respondents backing local housebuilding. This compares to 48% of Millennials, 42% of Gen X, and 37% of Baby Boomers. Opposition increases with age, rising from 16% among Gen Z to 26% among Baby Boomers, though supporters still outnumber opponents in all age groups.
Regional differences are notable, with Northern Ireland recording the strongest support at 53%, followed by Wales at 52%. In contrast, attitudes are more evenly balanced in southern England, with the South East showing 36% support against 35% opposition.
Resistance to development is primarily driven by concerns about its impact on local areas. Among those opposed, 61% cite the potential loss of green space, countryside, or natural habitat. Pressure on local services like GPs and schools is a concern for 57%, while 55% are worried about increased traffic. Only 7% cite concern about their property value as a reason for opposition.
Additional infrastructure could sway some opponents, with 26% saying more GP and healthcare capacity would increase their likelihood of supporting development. Investment in roads and infrastructure is cited by 18%, and 15% point to additional green space and community facilities.
When asked about government housing priorities for the next three years, 32% of respondents identified building more social and affordable housing as the most important. Reducing homelessness was prioritised by 28%, and 25% focused on measures to help first-time buyers.