However, I submit we should also give far more attention to our existing housing stock – indeed, to many of the historic buildings this proud nation boasts. Planning reforms are overdue, and we will need new developments to form part of any lasting solution to our low housing stock. Across the country, Victorian and Georgian properties are falling into disrepair. We’ve also seen historic churches disappearing at an alarming rate in the UK – over 3,500 churches have closed during the past 15 years or so. Perhaps top of all points in favour of looking after our historic homes, they are already there.