Daily News: 07/02/2025
Awaab’s Law will compel social landlords to investigate and address dangerous damp and mold issues within set timeframes, with all emergency hazards required to be repaired within 24 hours. These landmark reforms, set to take effect from October, aim to hold landlords accountable for maintaining safe living conditions. GOV.UK
The government’s Plan for Change aims to deliver cheaper bills and warmer homes by accelerating energy efficiency initiatives nationwide. Meanwhile, Warmer Homes London, a partnership between the Mayor of London, London Councils, boroughs, and housing associations, will unlock millions from a £1.79bn national fund to support vulnerable residents with energy-saving measures and reduce fuel poverty. GOV.UK, London Gov.UK
L&Q is considering transferring 3,400 homes to another landlord, raising concerns among tenants and leaseholders about potential changes to their housing arrangements. Meanwhile, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet is set to review plans for a £250m investment aimed at improving the quality of council housing for families across the area, with a decision expected at the meeting on 12 February. Bucks Free Press, Swindon Borough Council
A report by JLL warns that social housing waiting lists in England could soar to over two million households by 2034 if the current rate of affordable housing delivery continues. Analysts highlight that it would take 21 years to clear the existing backlog unless Labour significantly increases affordable housebuilding efforts. Big Issue
In a heartfelt speech during the 2025 Presidential Address and Appeal, CIH president Elly Hoult MA FCIH emphasized the importance of supporting housing as a rewarding career path. She encouraged the industry to actively promote housing as a profession that makes a meaningful impact on communities. Chartered Institute of Housing
Bury Council has selected build-to-rent developer Placefirst as its preferred partner to convert the 30,000 sq ft Humphrey House office site into 74 apartments in the town centre. Meanwhile, L&Q is planning a major upgrade of Stretford’s tallest residential block, the 24-storey Stretford House, aiming to improve thermal efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and enhance its appearance. The Construction Index, Messenger
West Midlands-based M&E specialist J S Wright & Co, along with its allied business Wright Maintenance, has filed notices of intention to appoint administrators with the courts, signaling potential financial difficulties. Construction Enquirer
Only 14% of UK councils have delivered ‘gold-standard’ energy-efficient homes, highlighting a significant gap in efforts to combat fuel poverty, which is driven by factors like low income, high fuel prices, and poor energy efficiency. Show House
75% of planning applications are claiming exemptions from biodiversity net gain (BNG) rules, raising concerns that the regulations are being widely circumvented by developers. The Construction Index
Up to 200 new homes will be built on former green belt land in Little Bookham, Surrey, despite concerns about sewage system capacity, after Mole Valley District Council approved Thakeham’s plans. A developer is expected to submit detailed plans to build 525 homes on farmland. Additionally, almost 150 new homes will be constructed near a park and ride site following a successful appeal by the developer. Meanwhile, plans for 110 homes in Hollins Green are set for approval by councillors. Surrey Live, BBC, BBC, and Warrington Guardian