New data from Planning Portal shows that the first quarter of 2025 was the strongest since 2022 for new home applications in England.

Over the three months from January to March of this year, applications were submitted for 71,813 new homes. That is 22,037 more than in the same three-month period in 2024.

The figures are revealed in Planning Portal operator TerraQuest’s Planning Application Index for Q1 of 2025.

Other findings show nearly all regions growing against Q1 2024 in the number of housing units applied for.

There were a record number of planning applications submitted through Planning Portal across all development types in March, the final month of the quarter.

All this has prompted TerraQuest/Planning Portal to issue some upbeat commentary suggesting that England is on the brink of a ‘housing boom’

Chief executive Geoff Keal said: “These figures are the strongest sign yet that England stands on the doorstep of a housebuilding boom.

“The intent is clear from both government and developers. But unlocking the door to a housing revolution remains a major challenge for everyone involved. Intent now needs to translate into action

“Major housing developments have long lead times, which means we are likely only seeing the impact of the government’s intent at this stage, rather than the full effects of actual policy changes.

“The second and third quarters of 2025 may well hold the answers as to whether the government’s reforms are having their desired effect.”

Talk of a ‘housing boom’ may be optimistic as there is still a long way to go in the government’s planning and housing reforms.

Certainly, we remain busy at KPPC for all kinds of projects but we will watch emerging trends with interest in the rest of the country over the coming months and quarters.

Please contact us to find out more about how KPPC can support your plans or residential development projects.