Prime Minister Andy Burnham has unveiled a £10 billion package to build 70,000 social and affordable homes across England, marking the first major spending announcement of his government. Around 60 per cent of the new homes will be for social rent, with funding distributed among 33 strategic partners including local councils — a first for the scheme.
The allocation forms part of a wider £39 billion programme aiming to deliver 300,000 homes over ten years. Greater Manchester receives the largest regional share at £529 million for 4,400 homes, while London is set for a separate £6 billion allocation. Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said secure housing "can be a lifeline for families," while Shelter said the move puts councils back in the fight against homelessness.
Conservative shadow housing secretary James Cleverly dismissed the announcement as "sleight of hand", and Reform UK proposed alternative plans prioritising British-born tenants. More than £16 billion remains to be allocated outside London.