Asked by: Mary Glindon (Labour - North Tyneside)
Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:
To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of introducing a new homes ombudsman.
Answered by Lord Barwell
A new home is not just the largest monetary purchase most people ever make, it is also the largest emotional commitment as people look to provide a safe, good quality home for them and their families. It is therefore vital that as housing supply increases, the quality of new build homes continues to improve so as to avoid some of the issues highlighted in the APPG for Excellence in the Built Environment report.
I am aware of the report’s recommendations, and will consider them, including that for a new homes ombudsman.
Asked by: Mary Glindon (Labour - North Tyneside)
Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:
To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to increase the number of wheelchair-accessible properties.
Answered by Lord Barwell
The National Planning Policy Framework sets out that local planning authorities should consider the current and future needs of disabled people in setting their housing policies. In October 2015, new Building Regulations came into force which include an Optional Requirement for new homes to be wheelchair accessible or adaptable. This requirement can be applied by local authorities where justified by need and provided that the viability of new development is not compromised. Compliance with the requirement will be checked by a building control body.