Overview

This bill proposes to extend permitted development rights for homeowners in England and Wales, allowing them to make improvements and extensions to their properties without needing full planning permission. This means certain home improvements can be carried out more easily and quickly.

Description

The bill outlines several new permitted development rights, including:

• Raising eaves and ridge height by up to one metre.
• Modifying roof shape (hip, gable, or mansard).
• Side and rear extensions (with size and distance restrictions).
• Rear extensions up to 8 meters (detached) or 6 meters (semi-detached/terraced).
• Raising party walls by up to 0.15 meters.
• Adding a floor to a bungalow (under 200 sq m unless a separate dwelling).
• Increasing building height to four stories in town centres.
• Adding air-source heat pumps, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging points.

However, these rights are subject to restrictions. Developments cannot erase rights of way, infringe on rights to light, substantially reduce daylight/sunlight, or infringe on private rights without agreement from affected parties. Planning authorities can impose design requirements, rainwater runoff measures, structural safety standards, and insulation/energy efficiency standards. They may also charge fees to cover infrastructure costs and for measures to mitigate the urban heat island effect. Properties in high-risk flood zones must meet specific flood resilience standards.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify direct government spending. However, it could lead to indirect costs for local authorities in administering the new regulations and handling applications, and potentially increased revenue through fees imposed on planning authorities.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Homeowners: Potentially benefit from simpler and faster home improvements.
• Neighbours: Could be affected by extensions and have rights of objection or appeal in certain cases.
• Planning authorities: Will have additional administrative responsibilities and may receive new income streams from fees.
• Building surveyors: Increased demand for their services in preparing compliance reports.
• Developers: May see changes in competition and demand.

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