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UK Mulls Dropping Section 106, Risks 32,000 Affordable Homes

7/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

UK ministers are reviewing plans to end Section 106 affordable-housing requirements for 10- to 49-unit developments, with a decision expected in weeks.
The National Housing Federation warns the change could eliminate 32,000 affordable homes over the next decade, particularly in rural communities.
Developers could replace on-site affordable units with cash payments to councils, a practice allowed in London after the fast-track threshold was lowered, which critics say deepens the housing crisis.

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Story summary

UK ministers are reviewing plans to end Section 106 affordable-housing requirements for 10- to 49-unit developments, with a decision expected in weeks.
The National Housing Federation warns the change could eliminate 32,000 affordable homes over the next decade, particularly in rural communities.
Developers could replace on-site affordable units with cash payments to councils, a practice allowed in London after the fast-track threshold was lowered, which critics say deepens the housing crisis.