The call for planning reform and landlord support has intensified as the next Prime Minister prepares to take office. TAB, a commercial mortgage and bridging lender, argues that the specialist finance sector can significantly contribute to housing supply and regeneration projects. However, current planning delays and tax policies are hindering investment in commercial and mixed-use property markets.
TL;DR: TAB urges the next Prime Minister to implement planning reforms to expedite development; this will directly benefit landlords and investors seeking to rejuvenate the property market.
What Planning Reforms Are Needed?
Karen Rodrigues, sales director at TAB, emphasizes the necessity of a revamped planning system. She advocates for the introduction of statutory deadlines, enhanced local authority resources, and a presumption in favour of converting redundant commercial spaces. These changes would streamline the approval process for change-of-use applications, making it easier to transform vacant retail and office units into mixed-use developments.
Rodrigues highlights the disparity between the speed of commercial mortgage delivery and the sluggish planning process, stating that while TAB can offer bridging finance quickly, the planning system often lags behind. This slow pace is detrimental to businesses and investors who rely on timely approvals to move projects forward.
How Will This Impact Landlords?
According to TAB, the private rented sector (PRS) plays a vital role in addressing housing demand, especially as the country grapples with a shortage of social housing. Rodrigues argues that the next government must support landlords, who have been treated primarily as tax revenue sources by successive administrations.
Key suggestions for reform include reinstating mortgage interest tax relief for individual landlords, eliminating the stamp duty surcharge, and reviving the Wear and Tear Allowance. These measures would alleviate financial pressures on landlords, encouraging them to invest in and maintain rental properties, which is essential for meeting housing needs.
What Changes Are Needed for Business Rates?
Rodrigues also calls for a reassessment of business rates, which she describes as a significant burden on high streets and mixed-use investments. She advocates for lower rates for independent retailers and hospitality businesses, arguing that such policies would support tenants in semi-commercial properties and help rejuvenate struggling high streets.
By reducing business rates, the government could create a more conducive environment for local businesses, which in turn would benefit landlords and investors in the commercial property sector.
How Does This Relate to Bridging Finance?
For property investors and borrowers, the proposed reforms could unlock new opportunities in the bridging finance sector. A more efficient planning system would facilitate quicker project approvals, allowing investors to capitalize on market opportunities without the delays currently experienced. Additionally, reforms aimed at supporting landlords could enhance the attractiveness of the rental market, encouraging more investment in residential properties.
As the next Prime Minister takes office, stakeholders in the property market should closely monitor any announcements regarding these reforms, as they will directly impact investment strategies and financing options. For more information on how bridging finance can be utilized in property investments, consider reviewing our bridging finance guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is bridging finance?
Bridging finance is a short-term loan used to bridge the gap between purchasing a new property and selling an existing one. It is often used in property transactions to provide quick access to funds.
How can planning reform benefit property investors?
Planning reform can expedite the approval process for developments, allowing property investors to complete projects more quickly and efficiently, thus maximizing their investment potential.