Key planning updates in the property sector

Our key planning updates timeline offers a month-by-month overview of the most significant announcements from Government housing bodies from January to June 2025.

While numerous updates and consultations are announced and introduced throughout the year, we have selected one key highlight from each month to provide a snapshot of the varying developments that have occurred over time.

The first half of 2025 has been defined by shifts in housing market activity, with a surge in transactions driven by Stamp Duty changes, followed by an inevitable slowdown as the deadlines passed.

It appears that underlying demand for residential property remains robust, however the changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and the progression of the Renters’ Rights Bill have introduced renewed uncertainty for private landlords.

Many are now pausing or scaling back acquisitions in response to tighter margins and increased compliance demands. Portfolio growth is becoming less appealing – particularly for smaller landlords – while larger companies may still see opportunities.

As ever, it’s important for those within the sector to anticipate regular changes in market activity directly caused by Government policy decisions. Success in this continuously evolving market depends on many things, not least staying agile and adaptable, as it continues to reward those who can anticipate and respond to change.

Lewis Ratcliffe, Business team Partner

How can Price Bailey support you?

Our property experts at Price Bailey work closely with residential, non-residential and commercial landlords, property companies, construction companies, not-for-profit housing associations and student housing companies. We understand the pressures different types of companies within the property sector face and provide targeted support to navigate these challenges. If you operate in the sector and are interested to find out more about how we can help you, please fill out an enquiry form below and we will be in touch soon.

July to December 2024 planning updates

The latter half of 2024 has introduced significant changes to the UK economy as whole, including the UK property sector. Following Labour’s general election win, central to their broader strategy to ‘kickstart economic growth’, is a mandatory target to deliver 1.5 million new homes during this parliamentary term.

This policy is set to impact everyone within the sector, from planners and developers grappling with tight deadlines and resource constraints to local authorities and communities adapting to increased housing densities and changing infrastructure needs. The pressure to meet these targets could foster innovation, but it also risks exacerbating workforce shortages and supply chain pressures if the change is not managed carefully.

Whilst the initiative reflects a commitment to tackling housing shortages, its practical implementation will require careful consideration to mitigate risks and ensure sustainability in delivery.”

Lewis Ratcliffe, Business team Partner

January to June 2024 planning updates

Of particular interest is the implementation of the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and a reduction in the number of planning applications in the first quarter of 2024.

Whilst BNG is generally a positive step forward for regenerating biodiversity, many believe that the net gain of 10% is low, and that the scheme would have greater impact were this to increase. With regards to the reduction in planning applications, this could be attributed to the increasing use of permitted development rights, which enable homeowners to extend their properties without formal planning applications.

Lewis Ratcliffe, Business team Partner

We always recommend that you seek advice from a suitably qualified adviser before taking any action. The information in this article only serves as a guide and no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of this material can be accepted by the authors or the firm.

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