Overview

The Healthy Homes Bill aims to improve the health, safety, and well-being of people in England by establishing principles for healthy homes and creating the office of a Healthy Homes Commissioner. The bill sets out standards for new homes and requires the government to consider these principles in policymaking and planning.

Description

This bill mandates the Secretary of State to ensure the health and safety of people in buildings. It defines "healthy homes principles," including safety (fire, crime), adequate living space, natural light, accessibility, sustainable transport access, carbon emission reduction, climate resilience, noise and light pollution control, and year-round thermal comfort.

The Secretary of State must create a policy statement outlining how these principles will be implemented across government policy, consulting with relevant stakeholders before finalizing and publishing it. Annual progress reports on how well new homes meet these standards will be required and laid before Parliament.

The bill establishes the office of the Healthy Homes Commissioner, an independent body responsible for promoting and implementing the healthy homes principles. The Commissioner will advise the government, investigate issues, publish reports and generally promote awareness. Local planning authorities must also incorporate these principles into their planning for affordable housing.

Government Spending

The bill will likely lead to increased government spending. The exact figures are not specified in the bill itself, but costs will arise from the creation and operation of the Healthy Homes Commissioner's office, including staffing, running costs, and the potential need for additional resources within relevant government departments and local authorities to implement the new standards. Funding for the Commissioner will be provided by the Secretary of State.

Groups Affected

• Homebuilders: Will need to comply with the new healthy homes principles in their designs and construction, potentially increasing building costs.
• Local Planning Authorities: Will need to integrate the healthy homes principles into their planning processes and policies, requiring potential changes to their work.
• Government Departments: Will need to review and potentially adapt existing policies and legislation to align with the healthy homes principles.
• Residents: Will potentially benefit from improved health and well-being as a result of better designed and built homes and neighborhoods.
• People with protected characteristics (under the Equality Act 2010): These individuals will be specifically considered to improve the accessibility and inclusivity of new homes.

Powered by nyModel