Government planning reforms should not lead to decisions being rushed through.

  “Increasing the supply of housing for those that need it most is always welcome. However, while we understand the Government’s desire and need to increase the housing supply through an enhanced building programme, we would caution against rushing planning decisions and pressing local authorities to build on areas, such as floodplains, that might not be sustainable.

“We need to build resilient homes that we can be proud of in years to come and that will combat the rigours of everyday life, and if we rush the planning and development process now then this may cause problems in years to come. Housing Associations already make a significant contribution to the delivery of the new housing supply despite having had their finances stretched over recent years, but they need the right support in place to enable them to continue to play their part in creating homes for all.”