Secretary of State for Housing, James Brokenshire, said that the Government is backing an exciting and pioneering project to build rooftop properties in London on the top of existing buildings with plans going ahead in Tooting, Wanstead, Walthamstow, Putney and Wallington.

With our targeted investment in affordable homes, and funding innovative projects, we are making our housing market work for everyone.

Regarding the London rooftop development, Homes England has agreed a £9 million funding deal with Apex Airspace Developments. The properties will be largely constructed off site before being winched on top of buildings, minimising disruption to residents.

The first of the homes will be completed by the summer and in total 78 rooftop homes will be built under the three year deal. This type of development is now permitted under a revised planning rulebook that encourages authorities to promote the use the airspace above existing residential and commercial premises for new homes.

“By providing targeted investment in affordable homes, and funding innovative projects to build rooftop properties, we are making our housing market work for everyone. Our £500 million funding boost for housing associations will help them build thousands of extra affordable homes,” said Mr Brokenshire.

Apex is a pioneer of ’airspace’ development where unused airspace above residential, commercial and public buildings is used as a location for new homes.