Housing: Office Conversions

Baroness Bakewell of Hardington Mandeville Excerpts

Wednesday 2nd December 2015 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

The noble Lord raises a very interesting question, and he will not be surprised to learn that I do not have an exact answer to it. I thought he meant garages attached to homes, as there is evidence that they have been used as dwelling space. However, I will get him that figure if it exists.

[Baroness Bakewell of Hardington Mandeville (LD)]

My Lords, can the Minister say whether the Government are prepared to review the waiver on Section 106 contributions for office conversions for much-needed sports, arts and public realm contributions, and whether she feels that the absence of a requirement to provide car parking spaces is wise given the huge reduction in bus services in some areas of the country?

[Baroness Williams of Trafford]

I can give the noble Baroness an answer on that in due course, if she does not mind.