The programme calls on local authorities to identify and package together brownfield land – often disused industrial developments – and partner with developers to deliver new homes quickly.

To accelerate construction the government has removed all but “necessary” planning restrictions and increased London Mayor Boris Johnson’s power of intervention. New Mayoral Development Orders will allow Johnson to do away with planning obstacles.

In effect, building in the housing zones will be ‘pre-approved’, with local authorities able to specify the type of housing they require.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles said: “By ensuring commitments to housing development are in place early and having dedicated housing zones, building becomes quicker and easier for homebuilders, businesses and councils.”

The 50,000 homes will be spread across 20 of these zones. The £400m investment has been split by the central government and the Greater London Authority.

The central government will also make £200m in loans available for 10 housing zones outside of London.

Chancellor George Osborne said: “The new housing zones will be a shot in the arm for house building in London, creating tens of thousands of new homes for hardworking families across the capital.”

He continued: “I suspect there will be those who object to the new building, even on the brownfields of our cities. But let me be clear: we build the houses Britain needs so that more families can have the economic security that comes with homeownership.”

Pickles insisted that building on brownfields – even with reduced restrictions – would protect the “valued British countryside”.