Date published: 28 January 2026
“Today’s announcements from Government are a positive step for social housing, bringing together new investment in affordable homes with higher standards for the quality and energy efficiency of existing ones.
“The scale of ambition — including funding to accelerate housebuilding and measures to tackle damp, mould and poor insulation — is welcome and aligns with the sector’s shared focus on improving outcomes for customers. It will be important to understand the detail of the proposals, including how new low-interest loan arrangements and further measures to unlock Section 106 homes will work in practice, to ensure they are deliverable and supported by long-term certainty on rents and funding.
“Stonewater remains committed to investing in our existing homes, making them warmer, safer and more energy efficient, while also continuing to build the new affordable homes our communities urgently need. We look forward to working constructively with Government as the detail of these proposals is confirmed.”
Anne Costain, Chief Finance Officer at Stonewater, said: “The introduction of low-interest loans is a potentially significant and welcome development, particularly at a time when higher borrowing costs have impacted investment across the sector. If designed well, access to finance at this level could play an important role in accelerating delivery of new homes and supporting investment in existing stock.
“Clarity on rent convergence is also critical. A fair and sustainable approach, alongside long-term certainty on rent policy, would give housing associations greater confidence to plan and invest for the long term. As with all elements of today’s announcement, the detail will matter, and we look forward to working with Government to ensure these measures genuinely support both affordability for residents and the financial capacity needed to deliver more high-quality social housing.”
