David Cameron to relax planning laws for new homes

Planning restrictions on new homes will be eased by the government today as part of a package of measures designed to help boost the economy and increase the supply of much needed new homes - including affordable homes - across the country. 

David Cameron and Nick Clegg are due to announce plans to make it easier for housebuilders to build more new homes in what the government claim could be the biggest housebuilding programme in a generation.

"We're determined to cut through the bureaucracy that holds us back. That starts with getting the planners off our backs," the Prime Minister will say today.

The coalition government also wants to make it easier for families and companies to expand their properties, giving a much-needed boost to economic activity.

Another 16,500 first-time buyers are also to receive help getting buying a new home under an extension of the FirstBuy scheme to be announced by Mr Cameron and his deputy.

The Prime Minister will add: "This government means business in delivering plans to help people, build new homes and kick-start the economy.

"Getting behind the businesses that have the ambition to expand. And meeting the aspirations of families that want to buy or improve a home."