Last year the government launched a consultation on proposed changes to the Housing Standards. A written Ministerial Statement has been published setting out the outcome of that Review. In summary minimum access standards in Part M (Access to and use of buildings) will be retained.
In addition, an optional level of accessibility will be introduced in Part M which will set out criteria for age friendly, accessible and adaptable housing. Government will also set out within Part M an optional standard which will set out criteria setting out the specific needs of wheelchair adaptable and accessible housing.
The Written Ministerial Statement
Government’s response to a report by the Environmental Audit Committee
Two amendments enabling the necessary legislative changes have been tabled. These are amendments to the Deregulation Bill which is currently in its committee stage in Parliament.
