Planning applications across England fall by 11.7% 

Data obtained by the National Association for Property Buyers, and as recorded in Property Reporter, indicates a fall in first quarter planning applications across England.

109,924 were received between January and March this year. This is an 11.7% fall on the first three months of 2021 

Jonathan Rolande from NAPB has been quoted as saying "Fewer applications are being received and less are being decided upon. Given we are in the midst of a housing crisis which has left many unable to get a foot on the ladder, these figures are concerning. I suspect this is a reflection of the massive hurdles which still exist to build new homes.

New applications to build homes must overcome enormous obstacles to obtain planning consent. The environment, travel infrastructure, schooling, utility supply, medical services, the wishes of neighbours and much more must all be taken into account. And the ongoing financial uncertainty may also be seeing many developers waiting before embarking on fresh building projects.”