Planning Laws: Basements

Debate between Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon and Lord Selsdon

Thursday 12th March 2015 Lords Chamber

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon]

That is a matter for the local authority and its planning body.

[Lord Selsdon (Con)]

My Lords, the Minister will be aware that my Subterranean Development Bill passed through the House some time ago. At that time, it was determined that there was no need for more primary legislation—only regulation. It was agreed with the officials that they would produce regulations and a report. I am still waiting for that. Can the Minister tell me where that report is?

[Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon]

I pay tribute to my noble friend for his Private Member’s Bill in this respect. He is quite right; my understanding was certainly that guidance has been reviewed since his Bill, particularly on party wall issues. I will take back the issues he raised about not knowing whether the guidance has been issued. Certainly my understanding is that the party wall policy has been reviewed following that Bill.