Green home improvements ''should require permission''

The government has given its response to the queries of its Environmental Audit Committee who recommend that so-called green home improvements are encouraged and incentivised.

The committee proposed that the government consider council tax and stamp duty breaks for home owners who are committed to reducing their environmental impact.

At the moment planning permission is required for a wind turbine although this may change following the Barker review into permissions.

Critics say that planning permission is vital for any improvements because areas of outstanding natural beauty should not be infringed upon by unsightly gadgets.

A spokesperson for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors said: "Areas where wind turbines should not be allowed are where they interfere with the character of the surrounding area, as well as in some protected conservation areas."

The Council of Mortgage Lenders says that many green improvements are simply not an option for homeowners because they have nowhere to install things like turbines.


© Adfero Ltd