The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Excellence in the Built Environment (APPGEBE) has been officially reformed and is launching a vital new inquiry titled: “How can we build 1.5 million quality homes in this Parliament?” As the UK faces urgent housing challenges, this initiative aims to explore how the government and construction industry can deliver high-quality, sustainable housing at scale, without compromising on design, construction standards, or placemaking principles.
A renewed vision for the Built environment
Now chaired by Mike Reader, Labour MP for Northampton South and newly appointed business champion for the construction sector, the APPGEBE is refocusing attention on housing quality, urban development, and long-term community value. With over 20 years of experience in construction—including a leadership role at Mace—Reader brings both industry insight and political leadership to this critical initiative.
“The Government has set out a hugely ambitious homebuilding programme,” said Reader. “It is vital that this is spent in a way that helps provide a lasting legacy for communities with homes of the highest quality—and we avoid the problems of the past.”
Inquiry to focus on quality, innovation, and community impact
The inquiry will gather evidence from construction experts, housing developers, planners, architects, and members of the public to ensure that delivering more homes does not come at the cost of poor quality or short-term thinking. It will examine:
- How to balance quantity with quality in new housing developments
- The role of modern construction methods and innovation
- Effective urban planning and placemaking strategies
- Lessons from past government schemes and regulatory failures
The Construction Industry Council (CIC) continues to provide Secretariat support for the APPGEBE and has issued a formal call for evidence. The Commission—comprising Parliamentarians and industry leaders—begins taking oral evidence on 14 July and will conclude sessions by 21 July 2025.
Building on a track record of policy influence
Established in 2010, the APPGEBE has consistently served as a powerful voice on the future of the built environment, influencing policy around housing quality, procurement, and infrastructure resilience. Its past inquiries have shaped national policy, notably the “More Homes, Fewer Complaints” report (2016) and “Better Redress for Homeowners” (2018), which led to the creation of the New Homes Ombudsman.
Graham Watts, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Council, emphasised the urgency of the latest inquiry: “There is a great deal riding on both government and the industry to deliver on its promises. CIC is delighted to be supporting the APPGEBE and contributing to this hugely important topic.”
Autumn report to shape housing strategy
The APPGEBE expects to publish its findings in Autumn 2025, with the report set to inform government policy, industry standards, and public expectations for new homes. As the UK embarks on an ambitious programme to build 1.5 million homes, this inquiry will be a cornerstone for ensuring the legacy of this investment is resilient, inclusive, and future-ready.
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