Overview

The Healthy Homes Bill aims to improve the health, safety, and wellbeing of residents in England by establishing standards for new homes and strengthening planning policies to ensure that housing needs are met. It creates a Healthy Homes Commissioner to oversee implementation and requires annual progress reports to Parliament.

Description

This bill mandates the Secretary of State to secure the health and wellbeing of people in buildings. A policy statement outlining "healthy homes principles" must be created, consulted on, and laid before Parliament. These principles cover several key aspects of new home construction, including:

• Fire safety
• Adequate living space and storage
• Natural light in main living areas and bedrooms
• Inclusivity, accessibility, and adaptability for all (considering the Equality Act 2010)
• Sustainable transport access and proximity to services
• Reduced carbon emissions (in line with the Climate Change Act 2008)
• Climate change resilience
• Crime prevention and security
• Minimisation of noise and light pollution
• Minimisation of air pollution
• Year-round thermal comfort

The bill establishes the office of a Healthy Homes Commissioner to promote and implement these principles, advise relevant parties, and investigate issues. Local planning authorities must also incorporate policies designed to meet housing needs in a way that secures the long-term health, safety, and wellbeing of residents, with particular regard to affordability.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, the creation of the Healthy Homes Commissioner's office, the preparation of policy statements and annual reports, and potential policy changes to meet the bill's requirements will likely involve additional government expenditure.

Groups Affected

• Homebuilders: Will need to adhere to new standards for building new homes, potentially increasing construction costs.
• Local Planning Authorities: Will have new responsibilities in planning for affordable housing and ensuring compliance with the healthy homes principles.
• Residents: Will benefit from improved housing standards and potentially increased access to affordable housing.
• Ministers of the Crown: Must consider the healthy homes principles when developing policies.
• Relevant Responsible Authorities (including Homes England, public health authorities): Must have regard to the policy statement when discharging duties.

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