Member Article

Architects are Key to Unlocking Housing Crisis

No matter what the outcome of the election, it’s good that there’s consensus from all parties on the need for more affordable housing.

More housing means more construction jobs, which benefits local businesses by growing local spend. New housing also means new infrastructure – for energy and flood defences, for example – and demand for more services leading to commercial development.

By prioritising quality of design – not only of new homes, but also new neighbourhoods – and making sure they create the right setting for quality of life, we can develop vibrant new local economies with new opportunities for businesses.

Architects play an important role along with developers, housing associations, and planners in shaping much-needed new homes. Local people know their neighbourhoods best and can make a valuable contribution in shaping local change – it is vital that we welcome community participation.

The need for more housing is indisputable, and housing associations face tough delivery challenges in the current financial climate.

The way forward needs realistic funding for intelligent, well-designed, affordable housing in supportive neighbourhoods that play a positive role in people’s lives. Affordable does not mean lower quality – construction standards and planning policies apply to all new homes whether affordable or for-market sale. Desirable new housing can be achieved without increasing budgets with the right architects on board. Bright, cheerful and dignified homes with intelligent layouts integrated with green spaces and neighbourhoods will underpin a bright future for residents.

We’d like to see the next government consider giving more power to architects with policies that place design quality at the heart of new development. Design must be a priority, with architects, town planners, and developers working together to drive construction with integrity.

Admirable, applaudable, affordable housing can be achieved through design – give architects a chance and we will do it.

We have a wealth of talented architects in the UK ready to build a better Britain.

David Brown, Director, BSBA Architects

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by BSBA .