Councils Can Lead on Housing Improvements and Health 2026

Councils can lead on housing improvements and health, as highlighted in a recent Guardian letter by Dr. Stephen Battersby, an environmental health and housing consultant. The piece underscores the urgent need for local authorities to take collective action to address unsafe homes, from excess heat and cold to damp and mould, which threaten occupant safety every day.

Why Councils Are Key to Housing Improvements

Local authorities have historically played a pivotal role in improving housing standards. In the 1970s, councils led collective action that significantly upgraded the housing stock. Today, environmental health officers face daily challenges with homes that pose serious health risks, yet they lack the resources and political will to tackle the problem at scale.

Councils are uniquely positioned to coordinate inspections, enforce standards, and channel funding where it is most needed. By revisiting successful past policies, such as the generous repair grants after the 1981 English House Condition Survey, councils can replicate proven solutions.

The Funding Challenge

Funding is a critical barrier. The discontinuation of the private sector housing renewal programme, reduced to £376m in 2009-10, was a direct result of austerity. To lead effectively, councils need adequate budgets to hire skilled staff and support homeowners in making necessary repairs.

Without investment, the health impacts of poor housing—such as respiratory issues from mould or heat-related illnesses—will continue to burden the NHS and society.

Data on Housing Disrepair and Health Risks

Recent surveys indicate that a significant percentage of homes fail to meet basic safety standards. For example, excess cold and damp are prevalent in older housing stock, leading to preventable hospital admissions.

Key Takeaways for Policy Makers

• Councils must be empowered with dedicated funding for housing renewal programmes.
• Reinstating repair grants can incentivize homeowners to address disrepair.
• Increasing environmental health officer numbers is essential for effective enforcement.
• Learning from 1970s collective action can guide modern strategies.
• Political will at both local and national levels is crucial for sustainable change.

Lessons from the Past: The 1981 Survey

The 1981 English House Condition Survey revealed high disrepair rates, prompting government intervention with £1bn in subsidies. This historical example shows that targeted funding works. Today, leaders like Andy Burnham and Angela Rayner should revisit such approaches to drive progress.

By prioritizing housing improvements, councils can reduce health inequalities and improve quality of life for residents.

FAQ

In conclusion, councils are the right bodies to lead housing improvements, but they need the resources and political backing to succeed. By learning from past successes and investing in the future, we can ensure homes are safe and healthy for all.