<p><span>Orbit Group has called for a “simpler and consistent planning process” as one of several asks of government over the next five years, as it launches its housing manifesto, <i>Good Housing is the Key.</i></span><i><span></span></i></p> <p><span>In its</span> <span><a href="https://orbitgroup.org.uk/media/2968/orbit-good-housing-is-the-key.pdf">manifesto,</a> which details how the housing sector and government can work together “to make the UK a more sustainable and prosperous place”, the housing group has highlighted three elements: housebuilding as a major UK employer and economic growth driver, greener housing and good, affordable housing to improve lives.</span></p> <p><span>Under greener housing for the future, Orbit Group points out that investing in energy efficient new homes and improving existing ones “will cut household bills and national spend”. A simpler planning process would allow more new social homes to be built. Orbit also asks for investment in green skills and supply chains to support decarbonisation.</span></p> <p><span>On housebuilding as an economic driver, Orbit says the government should prioritise spend to support the “right types of affordable new homes, creating jobs, rebuilding the economy, helping reduce long term spend in other areas and reducing housing waiting lists”. </span></p> <p><span>It calls for a “more agile and expansive grant system” to accelerate home building and revitalise local communities.</span></p> <p><span>And …