From Promise to Place – Richard Wooldridge Reflects On Panel Discussion
At the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, the Government’s pledge to build 1.5 million new homes sparked vital conversations about quality, sustainability, and community.
Richard Wooldridge, Director at HPA Architects and member of the RIBA Housing and Planning Expert Advisory Group, chaired a panel discussion entitled ‘1.5 million homes…what about quality?’ hosted by the RIBA, exploring what it takes to deliver homes that are not just plentiful, but meaningful.
Joined by Margaret Mullane MP, Matt Rodda MP, Cllr Hetty Wood, Cllr Tom Hunt, and IPPR researcher India Gerritsen, the panel highlighted 12 key takeaways for creating high-quality housing schemes:
Good Developments Need Good Infrastructure Transport links like the Elizabeth Line in Reading and trams in Sheffield and Liverpool were cited as catalysts for growth and sustainability.
Invest in Skills Building quality homes requires skilled workers across all levels of the construction industry.
The Importance of Good Placemaking Focus on creating communities, not just houses. Homes should foster connection and legacy.
Collaboration and Trust Are Vital Mutual trust between housebuilders and local authorities is essential, especially during the planning process. Liverpool’s quarterly RIBA Planning events were praised as a model.
Don’t Forget Existing Homes With 14% of UK homes unfit for habitation, retrofitting is vital – and often more sustainable than new builds.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Can Save Money Energy-efficient homes reduce running costs and help tackle fuel poverty.
Joined-Up Thinking Needed Coordination across Government departments and local authorities can prevent delays and improve outcomes.
Innovative Planning Solutions Bring Big Benefits Creative approaches—like adding storeys to developments – can help deliver affordability and aid viability.
Good Regulation Maintains Standards Strong planning enforcement and building control teams are crucial for quality assurance.
Understand and Consult Your Community Engaging with locals ensures housing meets real needs – leading to faster sales and better satisfaction.
Central Funding for Affordable Housing Is Needed Central support is essential. The panel welcomed the government’s £39 million pledge and discussed RIBA’s self-funded housing model.
The Golden Thread In The Design Team One of the comments from the audience summed up the most important step of all, which was to use a construction professional, preferably an Architect. We discussed how Architects are trained to be general practitioners of the construction industry and can play a vital role in making sure the new homes and places are well-designed, safe, sustainable and great places to live
