Flint reveals future-proofing plan

26/02/2008
By 2013 all new homes will have to be future-proof, under plans announced by housing minister Caroline Flint.

Charity Help the Aged recently complained the condition of the nation's housing stock was forcing the elderly to move into care homes, as many properties cannot be converted to suit the needs of retired people.

However, that could change in the future, as new building regulations will require all house builders to ensure their new homes meet 16 key criteria within five years.

These include improved designs for bathrooms, doors wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and staircases capable of taking stair lifts.

Ms Flint said the new regulations would help to transform the lives of older people.

"The vast majority of people want to stay independent in a suitable home at they get older. We have a responsibility to support that desire by increasing the housing choices that are available," said Ms Flint.

People heading towards old age who want to stay in their current home could consider making a number of minor changes to their properties to help improve their quality of life, including fitting shower seats, levers for taps and grab rails in the bathroom.