RIBA responds to Autumn Statement

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to HM Treasury’s Autumn Statement, yesterday, Wednesday 22 November 2023. 

RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said:  

“Today’s Autumn Statement shows that the Government is gearing up for an election, focusing on much-needed financial help for small businesses and the self-employed.

Today’s Autumn Statement shows that the Government is gearing up for an election, focusing on much-needed financial help for small businesses and the self-employed.

In terms of addressing the housing and climate crises, our expectations have not been met. While steps to deliver more local authority homes and speed up the planning system are welcome, funding levels for public sector housing continue to fall short. Fees for an improved planning service to businesses are welcome, but we also need systemic reform of our dysfunctional planning system. It’s also disappointing to see no long-term plan to retrofit our existing housing stock – a critical step to decarbonise our built environment, create jobs and level up the country. 

We will continue to work with the Government to ensure we build the high-quality, sustainable homes and places we desperately need.”