§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans the Government have to issue guidance to local authorities in respect of families who seek planning permission to accommodate dependent relatives; and if he will make a statement. [8975]
§ Mr. Raynsfordholding answer 18 July 1997]: This issue was raised for discussion in last year's Green Paper on household growth. The Government are still considering the responses to the consultation, on which we will make a statement in due course. I have no plans currently to issue further advice.
Rights to erect annex buildings in the gardens of dwelling houses similar to those that currently apply under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 1995 have existed for many years. To benefit from permitted development rights, however, such new buildings in the gardens of dwelling houses must be "incidental to the enjoyment" of the house. The creation of a separate main residential unit would constitute development requiring planning permission.
However, extensions to create annexes for dependent relatives may be appropriate in certain circumstances, subject to conditions. This is to prevent the creation of independent living accommodation which could subsequently be let or sold off separately from the main house.
The same is true for separate buildings—often conversions of outbuildings—intended for use for dependent relatives. In these cases, it is even more likely that a separate unit of accommodation will be created.
The Government are aware of the need to give householders as many rights to develop their properties as possible, but consider that these freedoms should not be detrimental to the interests of neighbours or the quality of the area in general, and therefore have to draw a line beyond which a planning application is required.