Bill to Convert Commercial Buildings into Affordable Homes

This bill would make it easier to turn empty offices, shops and other commercial buildings into affordable housing. The government says this will help address the housing shortage by using buildings that are not being used for business anymore. Local councils would get new powers to identify suitable commercial properties and approve conversions more quickly. The bill sets standards for how these conversions must be done to make sure the new homes are safe and liveable. Property developers would need to include a certain percentage of affordable homes when converting commercial buildings. Critics say this could reduce the availability of commercial space that businesses need and might not create good quality housing.

• 1Allows easier conversion of empty offices and shops into homes
• 2Gives local councils more powers to approve building conversions
• 3Sets safety and quality standards for converted properties
• 4Requires developers to include affordable homes in conversion projects
• 5Aims to use empty commercial buildings to help housing shortage