South Yorkshire’s property sector has raised concerns over the government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill, warning that it may slow housebuilding rather than accelerate it. The legislation, expected to pass in the next parliamentary session, aims to support the creation of up to 1.5 million new homes nationwide.
At an industry event hosted by Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber’s Property Forum, more than 70 senior property professionals discussed the potential impact of the bill on the region. Presentations from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Barnsley Council, and Rotherham Council outlined measures such as reducing statutory consultees, reinstating mandatory housing targets for local authorities, and committing to essential infrastructure delivery. Implementation is expected to take up to three years.
Industry representatives highlighted persistent obstacles to growth, including regulatory complexity, recruitment challenges, rising construction costs, and high land values. New home construction in the UK remains at its lowest level since 2017, signalling that current reforms may be insufficient to stimulate meaningful growth in the sector.
Businesses emphasised the need for more targeted support for developers and housebuilders to address labour shortages, control costs, and unlock land for construction. The sector called for policies that create a practical operating environment capable of translating government ambitions into tangible housing delivery.
