The current housing shortage could be alleviated if empty spaces above shops were converted.
According to research from the Federation of Master Builders, this is the view of over 90% of MPs, who believe that the often dormant space above shops could be developed.
The findings of the survey also correspond with the beginning of new research from the Federation, set to explore the opportunities of creating new homes in a range of various building types being used for retail purposes.
‘Homes on our high streets’ will focus on putting councils at the centre of the solution, looking at practical ways of making the most of wasted space above shop as well as overcoming planning hurdles.
Commenting on the results of the survey was Brian Berry. The Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders stated: “It is estimated that as many as 300,000 to 400,000 new homes could be created by making use of empty spaces above shops on our high streets. This is space just waiting to be turned into residential accommodation.
“The fact that 90% of MPs of all parties recognise the potential of our existing buildings to help solve the housing crisis means we need to be more imaginative if we are going to build the 300,000 homes a year that the chancellor pledged in last month’s Budget.”
