A national survey has found that more than half of Brits would like derelict land to be converted into modern, efficient housing and a place for cultural landmarks.

The survey by property developers Romal Capital also found that more than three-quarters of respondents thought that regenerated brownfield sites improved the lives of those living around them. 

Almost the same number believed that current derelict sites were an eyesore. 

The survey found that 83 per cent of respondents feel the government has failed to prioritise regenerating local brownfield sites. This was felt strongest in the North East (90 per cent) and the South East (85 per cent). 

“It’s great to see that people across the country want to see their areas improved and re-purposed. However, it is clear that speed is the issue more than ambition,” says Romal Capital’s CEO Greg Malouf, who called for more support and resources for local authorities to fast track regeneration of these sites. 

“Many people are desperate for somewhere permanent to live and keen to see former industrial and undeveloped areas turned into new, progressive housing neighbourhoods and community hubs,” Malouf said. 

“The authorities must become far more proactive and flexible to allow this to happen.”

12 May, 2021