Minister proposes power for parish councils to build affordable homes without need for individual planning applications

Parish councils could be given a special power to build new affordable homes under plans unveiled by the Housing Minister this week.

The proposal, which would be consulted on this summer if Labour wins the election, would mean a limited number of homes could be built in rural villages without the need for individual planning applications where the parish council backs the development.

John Healey said he wanted to extend ‘permitted development’ rights to build 10-15 homes in cases where parish councils have set out clear evidence and design expectations. These expectations would cover the number of homes, what they look like and where they would be built.

The minister said: “This permitted development freedom would help parish councils directly and swiftly meet the need for affordable local homes in rural areas. It will give parish councils the power to breathe new life into their villages and small towns.”

Healey added that the new right would be available to parish and town councils in settlements of less than 3,000 people where the council has identified a registered social landlord as their development partner.

Green belt, habitat sites and other designated protections would be retained.

The consultation would also cover other options that might achieve the same aim, such as prior planning approvals and wider use of local development orders.