New planning proposals will make it easier to build upwards on existing houses and flats
Changes to be included in the draft revised National Planning Policy Framework would allow an extra two storeys to be added to a property, provided it was in keeping with the roofline of other buildings in the area.
Housing secretary Sajid Javid said the move could create a “new generation of townhouses” in cities like London and Manchester while easing the pressure on open space in urban areas and prevent “garden-grabbing”.
The rules will also apply to shops and offices.
“The answer to building new homes isn’t always an empty plot or developing on a derelict site,” Javid said.
“We need to be more creative and mark more effective use of the space we already have available.
“That’s why we are looking to strengthen planning rules to encourage developers to be more innovative and look at opportunities to build upwards where possible when delivering the homes the country needs.”
In November, research by real estate firm Knight Frank estimated that 41,000 new dwellings could be built on existing rooftops in central London.
The draft revised National Planning Policy Framework is due to be published for consultation in early 2018.
