Housing sector bodies have responded to government comments about the lack of takeup for section 106 properties by pointing out that it is not always feasible or desirable for registered providers to buy the homes.

Analysis from the Home Builders Federation found 8,500 affordable homes due to be delivered in the next 12 months are at risk of standing empty or not being built because of a lack of a contract with a registered provider of social housing. The body also said more than 700 housing developments have been stalled in the past three years as registered providers (RPs) have stepped back from buying affordable housing units required by local authorities.