Budget 2025 arrived amongst a flurry of leaks, accidental publications and accusations of fiscal fandangos. However while the pre-budget focus has been on a “will she, won't she” set of tax rises, the development industry will note that - yet again -planning reform is front and centre of this Government’s plan for the ‘relentless pursuit’ for growth. Of course, the lead up to this particular Budget has, in itself, been a cause of huge uncertainty and risk aversion in the economy, exactly the opposite of what the Government is striving for in terms of stimulating economic growth. Some have criticised the back and forth over recent months which has only served to unnerve consumers, dampen sentiment in the property market and left many businesses puzzled. It is fair to say that it has been a steep learning curve for the Government, and the Chancellor in particular, since her first budget last October.
This insight focus considers the key announcements and implications of the Budget for planning, development and local economic growth.
