New rules could be implemented to stop developers turning Milton Keynes offices into flats

The council said it is proposing to withdraw the automatic right that allows former office buildings to be converted into residential properties, which will aim to 'improve the quality of homes built by developers in Central Milton Keynes'.

If approved, from July 2021 developers wishing to turn offices into flats in MK’s Central Business District would need to obtain full planning permission from MKC.

Removal of the permitted development rights would help ensure that new homes in MK are built to high quality, are affordable and uphold decent space standards, MKC said.

Leader of MKC Pete Marland said: “We want good quality and affordable housing being built in MK. By scrapping permitted development rights in CMK, we’ll put an end to important rules around space standards being dodged."

"Currently it’s too easy to provide no affordable housing or funding for infrastructure. It leads to poor schemes and it’s only right that these proposals go through the planning system and local people are consulted.”

A formal council decision is expected to be made on Tuesday, November 10.

The Central Business District covers the area between V7 Saxon Street, H6 Childs Way, the West Coast Mainline and H5 Portway.