Buckinghamshire plans for expansion with 95,000 new homes to meet government targets
Council working on future growth framework amid infrastructure concerns
Buckinghamshire Council is moving forward with the development of a new Local Plan that aims to accommodate 95,000 new homes, following targets set by the Government. This essential plan will guide the county’s growth over the next two decades, balancing new infrastructure needs with the protection of its natural and historic sites.
Steven Broadbent, Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, expressed the difficulties these new targets pose, which demand a 43% increase over previous Government guidelines.
"Developing a plan that meets the housing target for Buckinghamshire puts real pressure on our county as 95,000 new homes is 43% higher than requirements under the previous Government’s needs-based methodology," Broadbent said.
"The impact of such development on Buckinghamshire is immense but doing nothing is not an option as having an up-to-date plan is essential to prevent speculative development and ensure infrastructure is properly planned."
Broadbent also raised concerns over the absence of Government funding for vital infrastructure, including roads, transport, schools, healthcare, and energy systems.
"It is a major concern is that these imposed housing numbers do not come with any Government funding for the infrastructure that would be needed to support such growth. While developers will contribute to some of the required investment, this will cover only a fraction of the multibillion‑pound costs associated with new roads, transport links, schools, healthcare provision, sewerage systems and energy infrastructure. Central Government will need to step up and plug the gaps if their development targets are to be met."
The Council is devoted to safeguarding the Green Belt and areas of natural beauty, promoting 'brownfield' developments first. This approach will demand increased density in town centers, making further infrastructure funding crucial.
Broadbent added, "The Council remains committed to doing all it can to protect our precious Green Belt and AONB (National Landscapes) and we are adopting a ‘brownfield before greenfield’ approach outside of the Green Belt."
So far, over 1,300 residents and stakeholders have participated in the planning process, including formal consultations. Out of 1,400 identified potential development sites, approximately 400 are set for further detailed assessments with landowners and infrastructure providers.
No site decisions will be made until complete technical assessments are done.
The Council plans to publish the draft Local Plan this summer for additional public input. Interested parties can join the site survey before 16th March 2026 to have their say.