• The total number of homes completed in 2010 was 102,570 - the lowest number since 1923 (DCLG).
• 'We all recognise the bog standard, identikit Legoland homes that typify some developments. I want more developers to think outside these Legoland designs.'
  (Housing Minister Grant Schapps). 

The UK requires more homes, and they need to be better too. We need homes more suited to the demands of changing demographics, that respond better to the challenges of climate change and provide flexibility and space so that households can adapt them as they grow.

Localism poses new challenges for the routes designs must go through to gain planning permission, but this also presents opportunities as more engaged communities demand higher quality and more appropriate housing. Communities have more power in shaping housing delivery and the industry needs to design flexible housing that responds to changing social and technological demands.

This conference highlights the roles and opportunities within the built environment under localism and the shift towards neighbourhood planning. Leading industry experts and policy makers will discuss what makes a good quality home and offer advice about the role of architects in delivering schemes that will create strong and successful communities.

Keynote address:

• Harry Rich, RIBA
• Terrie Alafat, DCLG 

Speakers:

• Anna Minton, Writer and Journalist
• Jane Briginshaw, Homes and Communities Agency
• Alex Ely, Mae Architects
• Peter Studdert, Peter Studdert Planning Ltd

Workshops:

• Creative housing development solutions
• Self-build opportunities
• Designing for an Ageing Population