A response to the Scottish Government from the TCPA
The TCPA, along with others, has raised numerous concerns about the quality and location of homes produced through permitted development rights (PDRs) in England, since the rules were changed in 2015. Since then, the Government has made minor changes regarding access to natural light and minimum space standards but has done little to address wider concerns.
The Scottish Government is exploring whether PDR can play a greater role in helping to address the housing emergency.
The TCPA agrees it is good to make use of empty buildings for urgently needed homes – if those buildings are in a suitable condition and good location to support healthy communities. However, we think that when buildings are converted to residential use it should be done through the planning system. This briefing outlines the TCPA’s concerns about the health implications of extending PDR.
