<p>The industry has been reacting to this afternoon’s Spring Budget, with housebuilders highlighting the lack of direct planning and housing measures.</p> <p>Graham Prothero, ceo of Gleeson, noted the emphasis on growth and levelling up. But the Budget was “a significant missed opportunity in terms of support for the housing sector, and in particular for first-time buyers.”</p> <p>He gave examples of effective support for first time buyers, including help towards deposit saving “through a financial ‘top-up’ on each £1 saved, with eligibility linked to annual salary”. </p> <p><span>James Dickens, md of Wavensmere Homes, also lamented the absence of first time buyer measures. “With the recent conclusion of Help to Buy, t</span>he only help first time buyers have is the current stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to £425,000.” Fewer homes being built meant an impact on the rental market, he said.</p> <p>Bewley Homes was “naturally disappointed that housebuilding was not a key element of the chancellor’s budget today,” stated md Andrew Brooks. “We feel there was scope for him to help the industry and announce measures to reduce the chronic shortage of homes across the UK.”</p> <p>Brooks also said the relaxed planning controls approach to the <a href="http://www.house-builder.co.uk/news/budget-announces-12-investment-zones-and-regen-projects">12 Investment Zones</a> …