Britain needs houses, and Labour’s bold plan will address that. But it may require more migrants | Polly Toynbee

Housing scores the biggest positive growth effect from a “ zero -cost policy” the OBR has ever forecast.

2024 saw the fewest planning permissions granted for new homes for a decade , and the worst on record.

Planning applications plummeted when the last government scrapped councils’ mandatory housing targets, but since Labour reimposed a national planning policy framework, applications in the works have risen by more than 160% ..

Labour ’s planning bill is welcome, but public comments suggest local outrage at more housing.

Lack of seasoned planners is only one obstacle, says the HBF .

Government promises 300 more planners, but the RITP says it needs 7,000 .

Public back visas for construction workers by 38% to 16% against.