Temporary rules around the planning permissions required for the construction of home extensions have been made permanent, the Government has announced.
Part of a package of reforms, the rights allowing larger home extensions have been made permanent, following its introduction in 2013. Under the rules, homeowners can put a single-storey rear extension on their property of up to six metres for terraced or semi-detached homes, or eight metres for detached homes.
According to the Government, over 110,000 extensions have been completed since 2014, under the previously temporary rules.
Housing Minister Kit Malthouse MP said: “These measures will help families extend their properties without battling through time-consuming red tape. By making this permitted development right permanent, it will mean families can grow without being forced to move.”
As part of the reforms, permitted development rights will also give business owners on the high street greater flexibility as they respond to changing trends in customer spending.
The Government says that shops will now be able to change to office space without the need for a full planning application, which it believes will bring skilled professionals and their disposable income back to the high street and help support neighbouring traders by increasing local footfall.
High Streets Minister Jake Berry MP said: “This fantastic news joins our £675 million Future High Streets Fund and our High Streets Task Force in ensuring our country’s high streets are fit to thrive not just now, but in the years to come.”
