Consultation reveals ‘street vote’ details

Neighbours could be allowed to add up to seven storeys to their homes by holding “street votes” to avoid the need for full planning permission. The details of the legislation, contained in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act, are being consulted on by the government. Local referendums would allow residents to decide whether all households in that area can build certain types of development. In rural and other low-density areas, extensions of up to two storeys will be in scope, plus a third mansard or dormer storey. Progressively more storeys will be permitted in higher-density areas, with those over 120 residents per hectare, a level typically exceeded in city centres, allowed five extra floors, plus two additional mansard or dormer storeys. Under the plans, if at least 20% of residents or at least 10 householders submit a proposal for a street plan, and the Planning Inspectorate accepts it meets the requirements, the council must hold a binding local vote on whether to adopt it. At least 60% of residents must vote in favour, ministers propose. The Times (£)