NPPF to Allow Offices to Be Turned Into Homes

The government has confirmed plans to make it easier to turn businesses into homes following a consultation.  The National Planning Policy Framework will be amended to make clear authorities should approve applications to transform commercial buildings for residential use ‘where there is a identified need for additional housing in that area’ unless there are ‘strong economic reasons’ to oppose the development.  The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 will also be amended so space above shops can be turned into two flats without planning permission. Current rules only allow one flat.  The government published a consultation on relaxing rules on changing commercial premises into homes in April 2011, and issued a summary of responses and its next steps this week.  Download a copy of the consultation response from the CLG website.