The Government has said it will make it easier to build upwards on existing blocks of flats and houses as well as shops and offices in cities like London and Manchester. For example, an additional 2 levels could be added to a property – provided it was ‘in keeping’ with the roofline of other buildings in the area.
The Alliance had expressed strong concerns over the impact of the policy on the historic environment and the potential use of permitted development rights in consultation responses. The Government has stated that ‘developments must remain in keeping with the character of the local area, including the preservation of listed buildings and conservation areas’ This policy will be included in the revised draft National Planning Policy Framework, which is due for consultation in early 2018.