ECF’s Michael Lyons to lead govt New Towns Taskforce

Charged with making a shortlist of ideal locations for these new communities within a year, the taskforce is set to have its first meeting in September.

The future New Towns will be built on greenfield land, according to a policy paper. They will contain at least 10,000 homes, with expectations that they will house many more residences when all is said and done. Of the homes proposed, 40% are to be affordable.

These communities, which may also include urban extensions, will be governed by a ‘New Towns Code’ that will require them to provide connections to GP surgeries and schools. They also will have to contain green spaces, reach certain sustainability credentials, and be well-designed.

“Our new towns will deliver housing fit for the future, shaping new communities with real character that people can be proud to call home,” said deputy prime minister Angela Rayner.

Sir Michael Lyons will head up the New Towns Taskforce, with Dame Kate Barker as deputy chair.

Lyons is the non-executive chairman of ECF, formerly English Cities Fund. ECF is a joint venture between Muse, Homes England, and Legal & General focussed on regeneration projects, including Stockport 8,  the revamp of St Helens’ town centre, and Merchant Gate in Wakefield.

“A new generation of new towns and large-scale urban extensions could play a significant role in the government’s plans for economic growth as well as offering new homes on an ambitious scale,” Lyons said.

He added later: “Our mission begins today and we will work closely with local leaders and their communities as well as the wider development and investment sectors to make sure these new towns are built in the right places.”

Barker is the former non-executive chair of housebuilder Taylor Wimpey.

She said: “I am enthusiastic about working with Sir Michael on proposals for the new towns badly needed to enable more households to live in homes where they can flourish. It will be vital to ensure the locations will also support economic growth over coming decades.”

Rayner praised Lyons appointment.

“With Sir Michael in the driving seat, I know his taskforce will work together with local people to help us decide on the right places for these new towns, delivering more homes, jobs, and green spaces,” she said.

“We are getting Britain building again and our long-term vision for a new generation of new towns will enrich the lives of working people in the years to come.”

The remainder of the taskforce is set to be appointed over the next few weeks.