PROPOSALS to make it easier for homeowners to extend their properties upwards have been welcomed by the professional body for estate agents.

Secretary of State for Housing Sajid Javid said he wants people to be able to add up to two storeys to houses and blocks of flats, to help deliver “the homes the country needs”, while protecting green spaces.

The move would see planning rules relaxed to encourage developers to be “more innovative”, said Mr Javid, and to look at ways to “build upwards where possible” – as long as it is in keeping with the surrounding area.

Mark Hayward, chief executive of NAEA Propertymark, said: “We fully welcome any move to increase housing stock – the market is in crisis with a severe lack of available properties, which is pushing prices up and pricing first-time-buyers out of the market.

“The fact this will enable existing residential areas throughout the UK to expand is especially welcome, as it should increase stock in the areas which most need it, rather than being confined to more expensive urban areas.”