Government responds to loft conversion concern

The Government has disputed claims by builders that proposed changes to the planning regime for householder developments could kill off many loft conversions.

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has raised that prospect after warning that the proposal for an "impact test" for certain conversion work coupled with what it calls the effective removal of permitted development rights for some home extensions, could "wipe out" loft conversions in many urban areas. The proposals are at consultation stage.

The FMB has set up a loft action group to lobby the Government to change its proposals. Brian Berry, the FMB's external affairs director, said: "By applying the impact test to front or side room roof extensions and to rear roof extensions that are less than one metre from eaves, ridges, verges or party walls, the proposal effectively wipes out all loft conversions in built-up urban areas."

A spokesman for Communities and Local Government said: "It is wrong to suggest that our proposed changes to planning rules on householder improvements will mean that all loft extensions will require a planning application.

"In fact, the new rules will allow many extensions to go ahead without an application but with clearer safeguards against any development that might be an eyesore or lead to disputes between neighbours."

The department has pointed out that loft extensions are often the most controversial improvement between neighbours and account for a high level of complaints to the local government ombudsman.

Read the Federation of Master Builders' press release

Roger Milne

7 June 2007