17/04/2015
The Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Bill was given its assent on 26th March 2015. The new Act will require local authorities to keep and publish a register of all persons and community organisations who wish to acquire land to self build. Local authorities will also be required to have regard to the registry when exercising planning, housing, regeneration and disposing of council land in order to offer suitable sites for those individuals wishing to self-build.
The Rationale Behind the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015
The Bill was laid before the House by Richard Bacon MP, who commented, “My Bill will help us reach the point where choosing to build your own home – or to have someone build a home for you that fully meets with your personal choices as a customer – is a completely normal and routine part of the housing market.”
Modelled on similar systems in the Netherlands and Germany, it is said the Act will result in the building of more high-quality housing and enable rent to become more affordable through community-based housing initiatives receiving greater support from local authorities.
Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 and the Custom Build Serviced Plots Loan Fund
In January 2015 the Government published a prospectus detailing how applicants can access a £150 million repayable fund designed to finance the development of serviced plots dedicated for those who wish to build their own home. The new Act aligns itself not only with this fund, but with the ‘Right to Build’ legislation announced in the 2014 budget, which the government is currently receiving consultation.
Self Building doesn't come without legal risks and liabilities. If you would like to know more please phone our office on 0207 993 6960.
Fisher Scoggins Waters is a leading construction, engineering and manufacturing litigation firm, specialising in disputes and disasters. For further information on this article or any of our litigation services, please contact us on: +44 (0) 207 993 6960.