Unlocking The Future Of Affordable Housing

Earlier this month, Sureserve hosted a private roundtable discussion with 16 CEOs and senior leaders representing both large and small organisations from across the UK’s social housing sector. They were joined by Sir James Cleverly MP, the Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. 

Held under Chatham House rules to allow full and frank debate, the event provided a timely opportunity to explore the state of social housing in the UK and to speak openly and candidly about the complex pressures facing housing providers. 

At the heart of the discussion was a shared recognition of the social and economic value of affordable housing, including social rented and shared ownership homes. This common ground set the stage for a wide-ranging, constructive exchange on the policy, financial and practical barriers facing the sector, as well as the opportunities for partnership and reform. 

Development, regeneration and the challenge of viability

While energy efficiency and warm homes remain key priorities for the sector, the conversation revealed just how dominant development and regeneration issues are in the minds of housing leaders. As organisations endure pressure to deliver new homes in a difficult market, the viability challenge loomed large.

Those in attendance reflected on the cumulative impact of well-intentioned regulations – from building safety requirements to biodiversity rules – which, taken together, are increasingly acting as a brake on development. 

The situation in which rules designed to make homes safer are in fact contributing to fewer homes being built was described by some as “perverse”.

This pressure is further compounded by the financial weight of compliance. One housing association estimated additional costs in the region of £45-50 million linked to regulatory requirements, which detracts from spend on home improvements and underscores the scale of the burden being shouldered by registered providers.

Right to buy: addressing a structural imbalance

There was strong consensus around the need for a more sustainable approach to right to buy. The current system, in which properties are sold at a significant discount without sufficient means to replace them, is placing long-term strain on housing providers and limiting their ability to plan and deliver regeneration.

Particularly in mixed tenure developments, organisations face legal and financial barriers to repurchasing properties before redevelopment can proceed. This not only affects the pace of delivery but often locks valuable land into sub-optimal use. Participants called for a more balanced model – one that allows disposal receipts to be reinvested in new homes and supports the long-term sustainability of affordable housing.

Innovative thinking on housing models and community design

While much of the discussion centred on systemic and structural issues, there was also space for creative thinking. 

One example that resonated was the potential for intergenerational housing models, drawing inspiration from Japanese developments that combine care for older residents with early years provision. 

Such schemes could help tackle multiple social issues, from loneliness and demographic segregation to childcare affordability, while fostering more resilient communities.

Planning, density and the potential of regional growth

The planning system remains a critical area for reform. Participants discussed the opportunities for regional variation in development approaches, particularly around density, height and the design of suburban communities. 

There was interest in exploring how smarter planning and increased suburban density could deliver more homes without expanding into green belt land, offering a viable alternative to the current pattern of urban sprawl.

Alongside this, the potential for regional economic development to support housing delivery was recognised. Targeted investment and incentives could help revitalise former industrial areas and create the economic conditions for housing growth well beyond London and the South East.

Constructive dialogue and shared ambition

Throughout the roundtable event, the tone was collaborative and forward-looking. There was recognition of the progress made in recent years as well as the pressures that remain. 

Most importantly, there was a shared ambition to find practical, deliverable solutions – whether through planning reform, regulatory clarity or long-term funding certainty.

Sureserve is proud to support forums like this, where honest, expert discussion can help shape a more resilient and responsive housing system. 

We extend our thanks to all who took part and reaffirm our commitment to working in partnership across the sector to deliver high-quality, affordable, sustainable homes for the future.