Planning: Net Zero Emissions Targets Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateDepartment: Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Earl of Caithness
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Planning: Net Zero Emissions Targets
Earl of Caithness Excerpts(3 years, 9 months ago)
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Lord Greenhalgh (Con)
My Lords, it is quite clear that the future home standard is there to provide a floor rather than a ceiling in respect of ambition for local authorities. The Government will set standards that will require the avoidance of fossil fuels in future homes.
The Earl of Caithness (Con) [V]
My Lords, following the question from the noble Lord, Lord Whitty, will the Minister be more specific with local authorities? They are much keener to allow a new building to replace an old building because it usually means more floor space and they will get some benefit from it. I hope that the Minister will press them very hard to consider retrofit before giving permission for a new building.
Lord Greenhalgh (Con)
My Lords, we recognise the importance of encouraging retrofit. That is why, as part of the Planning for the Future reforms, we are looking at making it easier to support changes of use and improvements to existing buildings.