In a recent dialogue with Marcia Snyder, the burgeoning concerns among housing associations regarding the forthcoming Future Homes Standard were brought sharply into focus. The discussion illuminated the anticipation and trepidation that landlords and housing associations are experiencing as the 2025 deadline looms ever closer.
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I had the opportunity to converse with Martin Hughes, a senior project manager at a leading housing association in Liverpool. Hughes, who has been deeply embedded in affordable housing initiatives for over a decade, provided a wealth of knowledge about the shifting landscape of housing policies and regulations. Our conversation was predominantly centred around the Future Homes Standard and the palpable sense of anticipation within the sector.
“There’s definitely a sense of holding our breath,” Hughes remarked, resonating with the sentiments expressed by Ruth Ryan, the assistant director of affordable housing delivery at Homes England, during the Housing Community Summit. “We’ve been hearing about the Future Homes Standard for a while now, but there’s still so much uncertainty about what it will entail and how we can prepare for it.”
The Future Homes Standard, slated to be implemented in 2025, is expected to drastically alter the construction of new homes in the UK, with a substantial focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. However, as Hughes pointed out, the absence of specific details has left many in the industry feeling apprehensive.
“Landlords and housing associations are dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable homes,” Hughes explained. “But without clear guidelines, it’s challenging to make the necessary preparations. We need certainty around the green standards for new builds so that we can plan effectively and ensure that our projects meet the required criteria.”
Hughes’s concerns are shared widely across the industry, as evidenced by the discussions at the Housing Community Summit. Ruth Ryan, who addressed a panel in Liverpool on 9 September, spoke openly about the anxiety and anticipation surrounding the Future Homes Standard.
“There’s a lot of potentially still holding your breath to understand exactly what it is,” Ryan said, underscoring the prevailing sense of uncertainty. “Housing associations are eager to embrace the new standards, but they need clear, actionable information to move forward confidently.”
Hughes elaborated on the practical challenges this uncertainty presents. “When you’re managing large-scale housing projects, you can’t afford to be in the dark about key regulatory changes,” he said. “We need to know what materials and technologies will be required, what the cost implications will be, and how we can integrate these standards into our existing plans.”
Despite the uncertainty, Hughes expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the Future Homes Standard. “There’s no doubt that moving towards more sustainable and energy-efficient homes is the right direction,” he noted. “It’s just a matter of getting the information we need to make it happen.”
Hughes also highlighted the importance of collaboration and communication between government agencies, housing associations, and other stakeholders. “We need a cohesive approach,” he said. “It’s not just about setting standards; it’s about providing support and resources to help us meet those standards. Regular updates, clear guidelines, and practical advice will be crucial in the coming months.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Hughes emphasised the resilience and adaptability of housing associations. “We’ve faced regulatory changes before, and we’ve always managed to adapt and deliver,” he said with a reassuring smile. “I’m confident that, with the right information and support, we’ll be able to meet the challenges posed by the Future Homes Standard and continue to provide high-quality, affordable housing for our communities.”
This interview with Martin Hughes provided valuable insights into the current state of the housing industry and the concerns surrounding the Future Homes Standard. As the 2025 deadline approaches, it is clear that housing associations are eager for clarity and guidance. With the right support and information, they are well-positioned to embrace the new standards and continue their vital work in delivering affordable, sustainable housing.
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