Roundhouse victory could 'pave way' for planning law reform

Britain's ageing planning laws could be changed forever in a move that could boost sustainable, self-building projects, it has been reported.

The low-impact housing movement won a significant victory recently when Tony Wrench, the builder of an eco-friendly roundhouse in Wales, was given permission to keep his unique property.

Fears had been raised that Mr Wrench would have to dismantle his home - nicknamed "the hobbit home" - because of planning regulations.

The UK has lowest proportion of self-builds in the EU, reports the Guardian.

Simon Fairlie, editor of Land magazine, said it was absurd that the planning system discriminated against those who wanted to build such homes.

He commented: "There is a huge desire from people who want to downsize, who want a connection with the land, who also need affordable housing and are capable of building their own home at no cost to the taxpayer."

The roundhouse itself consists of a wood frame, cobwood, a straw-insulated turf and recycled window walls. Power is generated via solar panels and wind turbine.

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