Princess Anne wades into politics with unprecedented statement
Princess Anne has called for “a coherent national programme” to support affordable rural housing across the UK, making an unprecedented move by wading into politics. The Princess Royal made the remarks at a national conference on affordable rural housing hosted by English Rural, a non-profit organisation of which she is patron. Her intervention comes as…
Princess Anne has called for “a coherent national programme” to support affordable rural housing across the UK, making an unprecedented move by wading into politics.
The Princess Royal made the remarks at a national conference on affordable rural housing hosted by English Rural, a non-profit organisation of which she is patron.
Her intervention comes as the Government faces challenges with its ambitious housing plans.
Princess Anne emphasised that a “longer-term vision” is essential when building homes for the future.
Princess Anne wades into politics with unprecedented statement
X / English Rural
She highlighted the specific needs of rural communities, which require thoughtful planning to ensure sustainability.
The royal’s comments reflect growing concerns about housing affordability in countryside areas.
Speaking at English Rural’s conference, Princess Anne said there was “a whole lot of work to be done” to support rural communities.
She specifically pointed to the need for better transport and logistics across the countryside.
Princess Anne is the Patron of English Rural
X / English Rural
The Princess Royal stressed that improvements in these areas would be crucial for scaling up the delivery of both homes and jobs in rural settings.
Her comments reflect a comprehensive approach to rural development, looking beyond just housing construction.
As Patron of English Rural, Princess Anne has long advocated for sustainable solutions to countryside challenges.
The royal’s call for coherent planning suggests current approaches may be too fragmented to address rural housing needs effectively.
Housing Secretary Angela Rayner is spearheading proposals to grow Britain’s housing stock
PA
The Government has set out plans to grow Britain’s housing stock by building 1.5 million homes during this Parliament.
Housing Secretary Angela Rayner is spearheading these proposals.
However, the ambitious programme already faces significant obstacles.
Nearly three in four councils are expected to scrap or postpone plans to build more council homes.
This potential scaling back at the local Government level creates tension with the national housing targets.
The contrast between Princess Anne’s call for coherent long-term planning and the challenges facing current Government initiatives highlights the complexity of addressing rural housing needs.
The situation underscores the importance of the Princess Royal’s advocacy for a more coordinated approach to rural development.