Fossil fuel heating banned from new homes from 2025 in new government plans

The government has announced a new green standard for new build homes that they claim will bring an environmental revolution to home building – tackling climate change while keeping household bills low.

The proposed new Future Homes Standard will see fossil fuel heating systems such as gas boilers banned from new homes by 2025, and replaced with the latest generation of clean technology such as air source heat pumps and cutting-edge solar panels.

Ministers will also consult on a new blueprint to overhaul the planning system in order to create “a simpler, fairer system that works for everyone – from home owners to small and medium businesses, local communities to housing developers.”

The government has also announced plans for a new national design code that will “ensure developers build beautiful, well designed homes that people are proud to live in.”

In the coming months, every local authority across the country will be expected to produce their own design guide which reflects their unique setting, character and history, while meeting the expected national standard.

The government has also confirmed proposals to speed up the planning system, including the potential for more fees to be refunded if councils take too long to decide on specific planning applications. The accelerated planning green paper will be published in November, and will take forward proposals to allow homes to be built above existing properties as well as seeking views on demolishing old commercial buildings for new housing.

The first-ever government-backed National Model Design Code will also be published in the New Year, and will set out a clear model for promoting a better design and style of homes across the country, shaped by what local people want.

A new National Design Guide has also been published this week, setting out a blueprint for how local authorities can achieve quality and great design, and recommends what developers need to deliver to help win the support of communities – ensuring new homes are built quicker and better.

The document also asks councils to prepare and implement their own design codes, in line with the national standard, which can reflect their unique setting and character.

Housing secretary Robert Jenrick said: “Building new homes isn’t just about bricks and mortar, I want to ensure everyone – including developers – do their bit to protect the environment and give the next generation beautiful, environmentally friendly homes that local communities can support.

“That’s why I am requiring carbon emissions are cut by up to 80% from 2025 for all new homes and have published a National Design Guide, setting out simply what we expect from new development.

“We are also reforming the planning system making it faster and more efficient for everyone, from households to large developers, alongside giving families greater freedom to extend their homes to meet their changing needs,” he said.