A strategy for delivering 654,000 new homes alongside major infrastructure development across the South East between now and 2026 has been unveiled by communities minister Sadiq Khan.
The South East Plan is designed as a framework for sustainable growth that would support long-term economic performance in the region by meeting its housing needs.
The plan proposes building 32,700 new homes each year until 2026, with at least 60% built on brownfield land.
It also sets a 35% affordable housing target across the region for all new housing.
Development will be focused on an arc from South Hampshire through
A further two strategic development areas where specific development opportunities exist will also be pursued at Whitehill/Bordon in Hampshire and Shoreham in West Sussex.
No plans for eco-towns are included but will be looked at in the next review.
Also included in the plans is a “stepped range of targets” rising to at least 16% of new developments’ energy to be secured from renewable sources.
The plan reveals that the Department for Transport is currently considering proposals by the South East Regional Transport Board to fund 39 major road and public transport schemes in the South East between 2009 and 2015, which would potentially increase expenditure by a further £1.806bn.
Khan said increasing the supply of housing provision remained “absolutely critical” despite the downturn in the housing market.
“The South East needs a long-term strategy to strengthen the economy, address housing shortages and tackle the threat of climate change.
“The number of households in the South East is growing rapidly, with housing supply lagging behind and housing affordability worsening.
“Despite the current difficulties in the market we need to keep up with the rise in demand and provide more homes.”
Copies of the final version of the South East Plan have been placed in the libraries of both Houses of Parliament and are being sent to all South East MPs, MEPs, local authorities and the South East England Partnership Board.
