Working with the Counil we invite your comments on the council’s new draft Building Alterations and Extensions SPD.
Lambeth’s emerging Local Plan is due to be adopted later this year; when adopted it will replace the Unitary Development Plan (UDP) in providing the planning policy for the whole borough. When finalised the Building Alterations and Extensions SPD will help people who wish to alter their buildings understand the planning requirements and will illustrate what is and is not be considered appropriate.
In recent years Lambeth has seen a significant change in its housing market. Rising property prices and stamp duty are discouraging many residents from moving to larger properties and there is greater interest to enlarge existing properties rather than move. This ‘don’t move – improve’ approach is one that is increasingly common across London and the South East.
A number of consultees on the emerging Local Plan reiterated this position and asked the Council to consider a more pro-development approach to extensions than is taken in the Unitary Development Plan (UDP). As a result Policy Q11 of the emerging Local Plan has allowed for a greater degree of interpretation in terms of rear extensions and roof extensions outside conservation areas than was previously the case. The new draft SPD also reflects this approach.
The council’s Cabinet has approved the draft document for consultation and wishes to hear the views of the community on this matter. The consultation period runs from Monday 2 February to Monday 30 March 2015 (5pm)
If you wish to respond to the consultation please e-mail: planningconservation@lambeth.gov.uk
Thurlow Park News 