Developers encouraged as building work is on the up
GETTY Planning law changes will make building upwards easier
The move will make it simpler to add new storeys to existing properties in cities as part of the Government’s drive to tackle the housing crisis. Housing Secretary Sajid Javid said it would safeguard precious open spaces in inner city areas, stop garden grabbing and help growing families. While the shake-up will make it easier to extend upwards on blocks of flats and houses as well as shops and offices, developments will have to remain in keeping with the character of the local area, including the preservation of listed buildings and conservation areas.
We need to be more creative Sajid Javid
For instance, an additional two storeys could be added to a building as long as it does not make it higher than the roofline of other properties. Mr Javid said: “The answer to building new homes isn’t always an empty plot or developing on a derelict site. “We need to be more creative and make more effective use of the space we already have available.
GETTY Mr Javid announced the Government will be spending £866m on infrastructure including flood defences