Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.

Industry Responds as Andy Burnham Becomes UK Prime Minister

Andy Burnham officially took office as Britain’s new Prime Minister yesterday and has already pledged to build more council homes and end rough sleeping. He announced plans to set out a 10-year housing strategy later this year.

Industry leaders, including estate agents and trade bodies, have responded by urging the new government to engage with the property sector on key housing issues. Nathan Emerson, chief executive of Propertymark, welcomed Burnham to Downing Street and highlighted the need for a sustainable mix of affordable housing across all regions. Emerson emphasised the importance of sector engagement to help deliver the government’s manifesto commitment to build 1.5 million homes across England.

Justin Young, chief executive of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), noted that the new Prime Minister takes office at a critical time for the built and natural environment. Young pointed to the need for stable, long-term, and evidence-led policymaking to increase the supply of quality affordable homes, strengthen infrastructure, and support the transition to a lower-carbon economy. He also referenced the challenges in the home buying and selling process, including lengthy transaction periods and high fall-through rates, and stated that RICS will assist the government in implementing home buying and selling reforms.

Young further commented that the Prime Minister’s commitment to council house building is welcome, but that delivery will require local authorities to have the necessary skills, resources, and support. He stressed the importance of financial investment and a business environment that promotes investor confidence, alongside regulatory and planning reform.

Nick Leeming, chairman of Jackson-Stops, remarked that Burnham has placed housing at the top of his agenda. Leeming stated that building more homes is essential, but also highlighted the importance of helping existing homes circulate more freely in the market.

The property sector is now looking to the new government for clear opportunities to engage on housing policy and to ensure that ambitions for new homes and improved processes are matched by effective delivery.