House of Lords – How will COVID-19 impact housing and green spaces in towns and cities?

Tue, 15 June 2021 | Lords Select Committee Press Release
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15 June 2021

On Tuesday 22 June, the COVID-19 Committee explored the potential long-term impact of the pandemic on demand for, and access to, housing and green spaces in towns and cities.

• Inquiry: The long-term impact of the pandemic on towns and cities
• COVID-19 Committee

The pandemic has changed our priorities, with some people choosing to move from city centres and town centres to more suburban or rural areas, while those who choose to remain in more urban areas want improved access to green spaces, such as gardens and parks.

In this session, the Committee will consider the effect of the pandemic on the demand for, and availability of, commercial properties, rented residential properties, residential properties for sale and green spaces in towns and cities, as well as any resulting impact on inequality. Members are also eager to learn more about specific suggestions for policy interventions that can help ensure a strong, sustainable future for towns and cities post-pandemic.

Witnesses

At 9.45am, the Committee will hear evidence from:

• Andrew Carter, Chief Executive, Centre for Cities
• Mark Hayward, Chief Policy Adviser, NAEA Propertymark
• Craig McLaren, Director of Scotland, Ireland and English Regions, Royal Town Planning Institute

Themes for discussion

• The long-term impact of the pandemic on the prices, availability and location of residential properties for sale and residential properties to rent in towns and cities;
• The long-term impact of the pandemic on the availability, location and use of commercial properties within city centres, town centres and suburban areas;
• The long-term impact of the pandemic on the demand for, and access to, both private and public green spaces in towns and cities, such as parks and gardens;
• The long-term impact of the pandemic on the wider use of land, property and space in city centres, town centres and suburban areas;
• The intervention and innovation required to ensure that residential property, commercial property, green spaces and the use of space help to create vibrant and sustainable post-pandemic towns and cities.

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

The Parks Management Association submitted evidence to this on behalf of the sector, a response collated by David Lambert, Ian Baggott and Paul Rabbitts.

We made this public. To read our submission – see attached. Response to House of Lords Inquiry_final