BRE reaction to the King’s Speech

The King’s Speech, the first under this new government, is a speech designed for the built environment sector and shows the level of work required to rebuild Britain.

1st quote

"Planning reform is not just necessary, but essential, if Labour is to deliver on its commitment to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years as well the clean power system the country needs to reach net zero."

"Urging caution is also necessary: planning reform alone will not act as a magic remedy for all Britain’s building problems. We need better buildings as well as more buildings. We need to tackle the backlog of unhealthy existing homes and newly constructed properties unlocked by planning reform need to be fully sustainable and climate resilient.”

PART 2

"Empowering local and regional authorities is key. The English Devolution Bill, in conjunction with the Planning and Infrastructure Bill presents a great opportunity to unlock higher building standards while harnessing local economic growth."

– Gillian Charlesworth, Chief Executive Officer of the Building Research Establishment (BRE)

“Today’s King’s Speech underlines the scale of the challenge facing the new government. However, the announcement of 40 bills and draft legislation, nearly double that of the King’s speech in November 2023, shows a confident and ambitious new Government who understands what it will take to face down and overcome the challenges of today and the future. We support the ambition set out today and look forward to contributing to its future success.”

Discover more about BRE's research and expertise