Yesterday, Prince Charles addressed Parliament to deliver the Queen’s Speech. Whilst many of the updates stem from existing threads, if driven forward into tangible change they could have major implications on levelling up, regeneration and placemaking. Here are some key take-outs on what lies ahead for the property industry.
Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill
- The government has promised to devolve more power to local authorities
- In a bid to “revive Britain’s dying high streets”, councils will be able to force landlords to let out empty units that have been empty for a year or longer in compulsory rent auctions
- Local authorities will be granted powers to impose a new type of levy to stimulate the building of essential infrastructures, such as schools and hospitals for public benefit
- A new kind of combined authority dubbed the ‘county deal’ could lead to the delivery of more “joined-up” services
Non-Domestic Rating Bill
- Government has pledged deliver on its promise to improve the business rates system. This new bill would see rates assessed more often
Renters Reform Bill
- A ban on ‘no fault’ evictions, which allow tenancies to be ended at short notice with no explanation
- The Decent Homes standard is set to be extended to the privately rented sector, while a new property portal could make it easier for tenants to hold landlords to account
- However, the government plans to make it easier to evict tenants for anti-social behaviour or repeated rent arrears
Leasehold reform
- The government mentioned leasehold reform but will not introduce further legislation during this Parliament
Energy Security Bill
- As the government moves towards net zero, an energy security law will provide additional powers to encourage renewable energy and more efficient energy sources
If you’d like to contribute to the conversation around any of these issues, get in touch with hannah.channing@coverdalebarclay.com to discuss it further.
