21.08.13
Minimum space standards to stop ‘rabbit hutch homes’
Developers could be restricted from building new homes with tiny amounts of living space, the Government has announced. Proposals under consultation would stop smaller houses built to fit more families on to each plot of land.
Minimum space standards and a system of space labelling to give house-buyers a clearer idea of how much space there is in a building could be introduced.
The Royal Institution of British Architects (Riba) said the size of a typical new terraced house has fallen from over 1,000 sq ft in the 1920s to 645 sq ft today.
Communities secretary Eric Pickles said families are “trapped in rabbit hutch homes” because of existing guidelines on the density of new buildings.
Harry Rich, Riba's chief executive, said: “We are pleased to see the Government consulting on space standards. Our public research has repeatedly revealed that space in new homes is a major concern.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]