For years, housebuilders and developers have faced a planning system that is slow, unpredictable, and riddled with red tape. Now, with planning permissions at their lowest in a decade and housebuilding grinding to a halt, the industry is at breaking point.
But how did we get here—and more importantly, how do we fix it before the UK’s housing crisis worsens?
A System Stuck in Reverse
The government set a target of 1.5 million new homes by 2029, yet the number of homes granted planning permission in 2024 dropped to the lowest level since 2014. Why?
- Policy Paralysis – Shifting planning policies and local opposition have created uncertainty, leading to delays and refusals.
- Council Bottlenecks – Many local planning authorities are underfunded and overwhelmed, with applications taking months—sometimes years—to process.
- Costly & Complex Approvals – Developers face excessive fees, outdated regulations, and unpredictable appeals, making it harder to bring projects to market.
The Impact: A Slowdown in Housebuilding
Developers are stalling on new projects due to planning delays and economic uncertainty. With approvals taking longer, many builders are pausing land purchases and scaling back investments.
The UK construction sector saw its steepest decline in activity since 2020, with housebuilding hit the hardest. Fewer new homes mean higher demand and rising prices, pushing homeownership further out of reach for many.
How Do We Fix It?
- Fast-Track Planning for Major Developments
The proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to halve approval times for large housing projects. If implemented correctly, this could accelerate much-needed developments. - Tech-Driven Planning Systems
Digitising applications, automating approvals, and using AI to assess policy compliance could cut months off planning timelines. - Funding Local Planning Authorities
More resources for council planning teams would improve efficiency and help clear backlogs faster. - Better Collaboration Between Builders & Councils
Developers, local authorities, and communities need a more transparent process to ensure projects are approved without unnecessary delays.
Exclusive Support for Your Planning & Bid Success
While the planning process is slow and frustrating, securing approvals doesn’t have to be. Ubrix now offers expert bid writing services, ensuring your proposals and funding applications are strategic, compelling, and fully aligned with planning requirements.
- Maximise Approval Chances – Get expertly crafted bids that align with local planning policies.
- Unlock Funding & Contracts – Secure the projects and partnerships that drive growth.
- End-to-End Support – From planning applications to major development tenders, we help you put your best bid forward.
Reach out today for a complimentary consultation and see how we can help you cut through the planning red tape.
The Bottom Line
Without urgent reform, the UK risks missing its housing targets, worsening affordability, and further stagnating the construction industry.
But with the right strategic bids, planning applications, and funding proposals, housebuilders can stay ahead—even in a broken system.
Let’s talk—reach out to our bid writing team today for expert guidance.
