Hampshire housebuilder BRiCS has announced its support for Labour chancellor Rachel Reeves' planning reforms, designed to spur housebuilding.

Outlined reforms include obligatory housing targets for local councils and an aim to create one and a half million new homes within five years.

Hugo Reeve, managing director at BRiCS based in Durley, hopes this marks the beginning of a housebuilding revival. He said: "A return to mandatory housing targets is greatly welcomed. It is a positive first step in tackling the housing crisis and delivering new builds in the places where they are needed most.

"In recent years we have seen a failing planning system reach the verge of collapse, resulting in falling housing starts. We hope this is the start of much-needed change to reverse this and allow housebuilders such as BRiCS the opportunity to create the sustainable developments the country requires."

BRiCS is currently building homes in Bordon and Chichester, with additional south coast developments planned.