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# Director of Lichfield housebuilding firm says Prime Minister must do more to help first-time buyers
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/director-of-lichfield-housebuilding-firm-says-prime-minister-must-do-more-to-help-first-time-buyers/
- Published: 2026-07-31T07:35:10.000Z
- Updated: 2026-07-31T07:35:09.000Z
- Description: Walton Homes boss says planning reform also required to give certainty to industry and local communities.
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: Business, News

THE boss of a Lichfield housebuilding firm has urged the new Prime Minister to bring action on planning reforms and support for first-time buyers.

Andy Burnham has taken the keys to 10 Downing Street after replacing Sir Keir Starmer.

Amy Summerton, director of Walton Homes, said she hoped he would be able to do more to help others hoping to get their foot through the front door of a property.

She said:

> "The appointment of Andy Burnham as Prime Minister comes at a crucial time for the UK housing market, with the delivery of new homes, improving affordability and supporting the next generation of homeowners all firmly in the spotlight.  
>  
> "From a housebuilder perspective, the focus now must be on creating the right conditions to turn housing ambitions into reality.  
>  
> "Across the Midlands, and particularly in communities such as Lichfield, there is a clear demand for high-quality homes that enable people to put down roots while supporting sustainable local growth.  
>  
> "One of the biggest challenges facing the sector remains helping more first-time buyers take their first step onto the property ladder.  
>  
> "Rising costs and wider affordability pressures continue to make home ownership difficult for many, so we hope to see measures that provide greater support and confidence for those looking to buy their first home."

She said that changes to the planning system were also needed in order to give certainty to builders and local residents.

> "A planning system that is more efficient, consistent and responsive would give housebuilders greater certainty, allowing developments to progress more quickly while still delivering the quality and design standards that communities rightly expect.  
>  
> "However, housing delivery is about more than numbers. The homes built today will shape communities for generations, which is why it is vital that new developments create attractive, sustainable places where people want to live, with access to infrastructure, green spaces and local amenities.  
>  
> "The region has huge potential to support economic development through carefully considered housing delivery, but this requires collaboration between government, local authorities, communities and housebuilders.  
>  
> "The industry is ready to play its part. With greater certainty around planning, a continued focus on affordability and a commitment to quality, we can work together to deliver the homes that families, first-time buyers and communities across the Midlands need."