More support for self-builds

An increased level of support for those wishing to build their own homes could have significant benefits, according to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

The organisation has responded to the recently published government-commissioned review into scaling up self-build and custom housebuilding.

The final report – informed by a roundtable held with RIBA members – makes recommendations to government on how to support growth in all parts of the custom and self-build market.

The independent review was commissioned in April 2021 and was led by Richard Bacon MP.

In the review’s report Mr Bacon makes recommendations to government on how to support growth in all parts of the custom and self-build market.

The aim is to help boost capacity and overall housing supply in the housing market.

This should also support more competition and innovation within the housebuilding industry, as well as net zero housing ambitions.

RIBA President, Alan Jones, said: “By supporting more people to design and construct their own home, we will not only boost supply, but grow the proportion of bespoke homes that support higher levels of wellbeing and contribute more positively to local areas.

“In addition to raising awareness of the Right to Build and using planning reforms to support the delivery of custom and self-build homes, I strongly welcome the recommendation to use this delivery mechanism to accelerate net zero ambitions.

“I also have high hopes for the £150 million Help to Build scheme, which should allow self and custom home building to become a realistic option.

“All recommendations clearly align with the government’s levelling up agenda and Building Beautiful plans – I urge policymakers to drive them forward.”