Bjorn Howard, Group chief executive officer responds to the Queen's speech

Bjorn Howard, Group chief executive officer of housing association Aster Group, said:  

“The social housing sector has been eagerly anticipating the government setting out how it will reform the planning system and, crucially, how the Levelling Up Bill will ensure the continued delivery of affordable homes. This Queen’s Speech marks a welcome and much-needed sign of progress on these vital issues.  

“Clear direction from Westminster is crucial at this time. The cost-of-living crisis and record-high house prices have produced an even more challenging environment for those on lower incomes, making access to affordable housing more important than ever. As a housing association we are ready to work with the government to help channel the levelling up agenda so the right mix of housing is delivered.  

“Housing needs at a local level are incredibly specific and varied so we must match this by being more dynamic and diverse in the methods we use to deliver new homes. For example, many towns and villages would benefit from Community Land Trusts – a currently underused method of housing delivery where developments are led by the local community and people who will live there. 

“We also welcome the government’s intention to bring forward new social housing legislation. We put our customers’ voice at the heart of every strategic decision we make and we’re constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance the services we offer to them. The framework that this Bill sets out will be an essential benchmark that helps us to continuously evolve our offering to the people living in our homes.”