A continued decline in planning applications is raising concerns over the Labour Government’s pledge to deliver 1.5 million new homes during this Parliament — a key part of its plan to drive economic growth.

New data from Barbour ABI, reported in The Telegraph, shows that an average of 17,691 planning applications for new homes have been submitted each month in England so far this year, down from 19,369 a year ago.

Analysts warn that the slowdown could hinder delivery of housing targets, particularly amid ongoing challenges with local plan adoption, planning reform, and developer confidence.

Pension Funds Commit to Affordable Housing and Infrastructure

Meanwhile, a coalition of 20 of the UK’s largest pension providers and insurers has announced a major regional investment drive, focusing on affordable housing and rural broadband.

According to The Times, Legal & General has pledged £2 billion to deliver 10,000 affordable homes by 2030, while Nest will invest £40 million in fibre broadband across Scotland and northern England and commit an additional £100 million to Schroders Capital for broader UK investment.

The initiative forms part of a wider effort to mobilise institutional capital in support of national growth, infrastructure renewal, and levelling-up priorities.