TV property expert George Clarke has challenged the government to look at the fact there are 240,000 long term empty homes in the UK.
Speaking at the 18th Property Forum Dinner in Central London he spoke about the slow pace, poor quality and lack of imagination used by house builders on developments around the country.
He said that a programme refurbishment and a simplified and faster planning regime were needed to address a worsening housing crisis.
He also entertained guests at the dinner with stories about the varied planning, site and environmental challenges that his clients had faced and how they had affected the projects, offering sage advice for attending lenders, agents and solicitors.
Marshall King, CEO of SearchFlow said: "We were delighted with the positive feedback from guests at this year’s dinner. It has underlined what has been a stronger year for many and was a real opportunity for attendees to consider future developments in this constantly evolving market.
“George Clarke gave us plenty of food for thought about sustaining housing need and the ongoing vitality of the property industry."
