Housebuilders are not the villains. It’s the system that has to change

By Richard Steer2023-06-13T05:20:00

It may be politically fashionable, but it is unfair and unwise to criticise the Taylor Wimpeys, Barratts and Bellways for the housing shortage, writes Richard Steer of Gleeds

Housing is the new political catnip. If in need of a picture for your next manifesto, don a hi-viz vest, collect your hard hat and head for the nearest residential building site.

Get snapped pointing at a pile of bricks looking wistful while, at the same time, opining at the lack of available properties for first-time buyers.

It would seem that the new bogie man – or woman – is no longer an estate agent, journalist or expense fiddling MPs. It’s the UK housebuilder. They are apparently to blame for the housing shortage.

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