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[Nov 2005]
CPA Calls on Chancellor to Provide for More Housebuilding
In advance of the UK Government's Pre-Budget Report on 5 December 2005, the Construction Products Association (CPA) has written to the Chancellor urging him to respond positively to the Barker Report on housing supply which pointed to the need for increased levels of both social and private housing provision. At the same time, the CPA wants to see additional incentives to encourage the take-up of brownfield sites and for housing to be built to higher levels of sustainability.
In his submission, CPA President Roy Harrison told the Chancellor: "The Barker Review, which was commissioned by the Treasury, highlights the adverse effects on the economy of a consistent undersupply of housing in this country. We have been promised a full Government response by the end of the year, and I would urge you to respond positively to Kate Barker's recommendations, both by financial provision for higher levels of social housing, and through a more effective planning system which will release land where it is needed for additional private housing.
"Such developments must, however, recognise the importance of sustainability and we are, therefore, proposing that you:
-- Allow owners of brownfield land to offset the upfront cost of cleaning-up contaminated sites against their Corporation Tax liability.
-- Indicate that the Government is minded to introduce a time limited reduction in Council Tax for those who buy new private sector homes which meet the requirements of the proposed Code for Sustainable Buildings."
ENDS