House Builders Federation head of media Pierre Williams said: "The Barker review is one of the most comprehensive examinations of the British undersupply crisis. It is extremely robust and points the way forward to what should be done. It is therefore disappointing that the government response so far seems to be one of more consultation.
He added: "It raises questions about how committed the government is to dealing with it. Although it is tempting to put off any tough decisions until after the election, we really urge the government to get on with delivery."
One housing expert said: "If you are anxious to increase housing output you need to speed it up as quickly as you can.
"You need to address where in the current housing mechanisms you can increase output. What is the real commitment from the ODPM?"
The department has laid down a number of pre-conditions before it begins to implement the recommendations of the Barker review. These include a coherent and efficient planning service, year-long consultation on the planning gain supplement and a progress review at the end of next year. The industry is concerned that the government is trying to kick Barker's more contentious recommendations into the long grass until after the next general election.
Industry figures are also worried at the mauling that the planning bill received in the House of Lords, which this week voted to reject the government's proposals to reduce the length of time to obtain planning permission from five years to three.
A spokesperson for the ODPM said the government needed time to consider the logistical and environmental implications of the Barker review. "We are increasing housing supply though the communities plan, and now we need to consider the scale of development proposed by Barker both locally and nationally."
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