Seven New Towns Announced to Tackle Housing Crisis with Tens of Thousands of Homes
Ministers have unveiled the locations of seven proposed new towns, promising tens of thousands of homes as part of an ambitious housebuilding programme billed as the most significant in half a century. The initiative, pledged in Labour's manifesto, aims to have spades in the ground by 2029, directly addressing the ongoing housing crisis.
Key Locations and Housing Targets
The proposed new towns include Manchester Victoria North, with up to 15,000 homes and a new Metrolink stop for residents. Tempsford in Bedfordshire is set for up to 40,000 homes built around a new East West rail station, while Thamesmead in Greenwich will see 15,000 new homes. Other locations are Crews Hill and Chase Park in Enfield (up to 21,000 homes), Leeds South Bank in West Yorkshire (up to 20,000 homes), Brabazon and the West Innovation Arc in South Gloucestershire (up to 40,000 homes), and Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire (up to 40,000 homes).
Government Commitments and Political Backing
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has emphasised that the government's goal is for at least 40% of homes in these new towns to be affordable, including social housing. Housing Secretary Steve Reed stated, "People want real change – homes they can afford, local infrastructure that works, and good jobs in thriving communities. Our next generation of new towns marks a turning point in how we build for the future."
Chancellor Rachel Reeves highlighted the role of planning reform, saying, "For decades this country’s planning system has been a direct obstacle to building new homes, ramping up costs and pricing young people out of the housing market. Now we’re planning to build a new generation of new towns."
Local Support and Future Steps
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham welcomed the proposed new town in Victoria North, noting it as one of the UK's most ambitious regeneration projects. He said, "Victoria North will see the building of 15,000 new homes, including many for social rent, alongside high-quality green spaces close to our city centre."
Final locations in the scheme are expected to be confirmed later in 2026, with reports suggesting potential names like Attleeton after post-war Prime Minister Clement Attlee or Elizabethtown after the late Queen, though no decisions have been made. The programme is inspired by the legacy of the 1945 Labour government, aiming to create whole communities with integrated homes, jobs, transport links, and green spaces.
