UTB’s Adam Bovingdon Comments on Rightmove Analysis Showing New Build Developments Coming to Market is at the Lowest Level Since 2017

11 July 2026

New analysis from Rightmove has revealed that the number of new-build developments coming to market has fallen to its lowest level since 2017, prompting renewed calls for measures to stimulate housebuilding. Adam Bovingdon, Managing Director of Real Estate Finance at United Trust Bank, believes the focus must now shift beyond planning reform and towards restoring confidence among both developers and homebuyers.

Adam Bovingdon, Managing Director – Real Estate Finance – United Trust Bank comments:

“The latest figures should concern anyone serious about increasing housing delivery, or perhaps more importantly, anyone about to take over as PM.

“The Government has rightly made boosting housing supply a key priority, but setting ambitious targets is one thing; homes will only be built if developers have the confidence to invest. At present there is a clear disconnect. While planning reform and faster decision-making are welcome, the economy has slowed, consumer confidence remains fragile and affordability pressures continue to weigh on prospective buyers. Developers cannot be expected to commit millions of pounds to new projects if there is uncertainty over who will ultimately buy the homes they build.

“The debate now needs to extend beyond planning and focus equally on stimulating demand. Measures such as stamp duty reform, improved mortgage accessibility and targeted support for first-time buyers all deserve serious consideration if the Government is to achieve its housing ambitions.

“There is also a risk that too much attention is focused on the largest housebuilders. SME developers have long played a vital role in delivering new homes, but many are now facing the combined pressures of higher construction costs, increased regulation, elevated funding costs and weaker sales rates. Bringing forward viable schemes has become significantly more challenging.

“If the Government wants to deliver a meaningful increase in housing supply during this Parliament, it must restore confidence at both ends of the market. Developers need confidence to build and buyers need confidence to buy. Without both, housing targets risk remaining aspirations rather than outcomes.”