MHCLG publishes New Towns Taskforce report and initial response
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published the New Towns Taskforce report, alongside its initial response. The Taskforce—an independent expert advisory panel established in September 2024—identified 12 potential sites for new town developments across England and set out proposed delivery mechanisms. It recommends a mix of large-scale communities, such as urban extensions, urban regeneration and standalone greenfield sites, with each new town expected to contain at least 10,000 homes, of which a minimum of 40% would be affordable housing. In its initial response, MHCLG welcomed all 12 proposed locations and the Taskforce’s wider delivery recommendations. It set out plans to begin construction in at least three new towns during the current Parliament, prioritising Tempsford, Crews Hill and Leeds South Bank. A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) will be undertaken to evaluate the environmental impact of the proposed developments before final decisions are made. Draft proposals and the SEA are expected to be published for consultation in spring 2026, followed by confirmation of selected locations and a full government response. A dedicated New Towns Unit will also be established to coordinate development and innovation across departments.