New planning rules could create construction jobs

01/10/2008

More construction jobs could open up today after changes to planning permission were announced by Housing and Planning Minister Caroline Flint.

Making home improvements is expected to become much more popular now that thousands of people will no longer need permission to make extensions.

As well as removing the long wait for planning permission, the changes will also mean homeowners will avoid costs which can reach up to £1,000.

Ms Flint said: "From today people will find it has become much easier to convert the loft and build on an extension.

"The changes the government has made will mean about 80,000 households a year no longer have to get planning permission.

"At a time when the whole country is counting their pennies carefully any room to make a saving on stretched family finances is particularly welcome."

Last week, it was revealed that a new Code of Conduct is set to be introduced in 2010 for those with jobs in construction.

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