Housing Secretary Angela Rayner has stated there is only a "slim chance" the government will achieve its target of building 1.5 million new homes in England by the next general election. Speaking to the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Rayner acknowledged the significant challenges facing the ambitious pledge.

This target, a key commitment in Labour's manifesto, aims to deliver a substantial increase in housing stock by the end of the current parliamentary term, potentially as late as summer 2029. To meet this goal, an average of 300,000 new properties would need to be constructed annually, a rate not seen in decades, encompassing both private and social housing.

Rayner conceded that while the goal is difficult to achieve, it remains important to pursue. "It's a slim chance, but I'm definitely not giving it up," she told the BBC, emphasizing that the government is actively investing billions in social and affordable housing. She also highlighted an increase in home starts by 15% last year as evidence of progress.

Factors such as the ongoing conflict in Iran and escalating construction costs have been cited as significant "headwinds" making the target harder to reach. Data up to June of this year indicated that the pace of construction was lagging behind the rate required to meet the 1.5 million home goal. Housebuilders had previously expressed concerns that the target was overly optimistic.

Recent analysis by BBC Verify, using data on Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) which are legally required for new dwellings, showed approximately 203,000 new homes were delivered in England in the 12 months to June 2026. This figure falls considerably short of the 300,000 needed annually to stay on track.

Rayner's predecessor, Steve Reed, had previously admitted that a significant surge in construction would be necessary but expressed confidence that planning reforms would eventually help meet the target. Reforms introduced by the current government, including changes to green belt development rules, are expected to boost construction in the long term, according to analysts.

However, construction is also being hampered by other issues, including high house prices relative to average incomes, increased global costs due to international conflicts, and labour shortages stemming from Brexit. The Prime Minister has reportedly made building council houses a fundamental priority, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham also promising a significant council house building program, though specific details remain undisclosed.

Despite the acknowledged difficulties and the current shortfall in construction rates, Rayner maintained the government's commitment to addressing the housing crisis and stressed ongoing efforts to make a difference through targeted investment and policy adjustments.