Law proposed to save green spaces from garden grab

Lawmakers in Northern Ireland are set to consider new planning regulations which would prevent the building of new homes on small garden plots, the Belfast Telegraph reported yesterday (November 9th).

The proposed changes have been linked with a wider strategy of flood prevention, as gardens help to absorb rainwater. The Northern Ireland assembly is also considering the idea of making greater use of water-permeable pavement slabs in built-up areas to boost flood protection.

Concerns have been voiced over the loss of back gardens and other green spaces.

Edwin Poots, Northern Ireland environment minister emphasised the importance of ensuring that new housing developments do not alter the architectural character of residential areas.

He added: "These draft policies retain sufficient flexibility to allow for higher density housing schemes through imaginative and innovative design which can deliver significant benefits.

Last week, the Times reported on a number of industrial buildings which have successfully been converted into homes.