Andy Burnham, who is widely expected to become the next prime minister, proposed a plan to transfer private rental homes into public ownership as part of a broader effort to improve energy efficiency and meet environmental targets. Speaking in March at an environmental summit while serving as Mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham advocated for increased public control over housing to accelerate the transition to greener properties.

Burnham stated that where necessary, homes could be removed from the private rental sector and converted into public housing. This approach, he suggested, would provide tenants with more affordable options, both in terms of rent and energy costs. The proposal aligns with Greater Manchester’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2038, which includes initiatives to upgrade housing stock.

The proposal has drawn sharp criticism. Shadow energy minister Andrew Bowie characterized Burnham’s plan as an overreach of state power, warning it could lead to government authorities forcibly repossessing private homes. Bowie said the government should focus instead on reducing electricity costs and allowing individuals to choose how to meet energy needs, rather than imposing compulsory measures.

Sources familiar with the matter clarified that Burnham’s remarks were specifically focused on Manchester and do not represent formal government policy. The mayor has previously supported the use of compulsory purchase orders for private rental properties that fail to meet legal standards under the Decent Homes Standard, potentially enabling councils to acquire substandard housing for renovation.

While Burnham’s proposed measures reflect a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and affordable housing, they have sparked debate over private property rights and the appropriate role of public authorities in the housing market. As Burnham moves closer to the premiership, housing policy is likely to remain a key area of discussion.