Object

Representation ID: 27776

Received: 24/03/2021

Respondent: Persimmon Homes (West Yorkshire)

Agent: Lichfields

Whilst this aim is supported unreservedly, it is considered that the requirement for 100% of new homes to meet Requirement M4(2) of the Building Regulations, as required by Policy HO9, is wholly onerous.
Requirement M4(2) is not a mandatory Building Regulations requirement and in order to meet this requirement, Persimmon would need to completely redesign a significant number of the house types within its standard range. The resulting impacts would be prevalent in plot size, development density and, ultimately, site viability.
It is questioned whether there is a need to impose such stringent requirements on every residential development. Rather, it is recommended that such design measures are only implemented when there is robust evidence to justify the need in a particular location. Indeed, national legislation is currently evolving on this matter through building regulations, and the overwhelming position of the industry is that these matters should be addressed through this avenue. Persimmon objects to CBMDC seeking to impose ‘over and above’ requirements, particularly where there is no evidence that these are required in the district. Should CBMDC wish to retain reference to a minimum proportion of properties, it is recommended that this is reduced to no more than 25%.
Reference to the national space standards as set out within Policy HO7 is welcomed in ensuring the achievement of good quality residential accommodation, and which all Persimmon’s standard house types meet or exceed.