New build homes too small for recycling

Nearly three-quarters of new build homes in the UK aren’t big enough for their occupants to properly recycle waste, research by CABE has discovered.

The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment polled 2,500 private owners of new build homes, of whom 72% said their home does “not have enough space for the three small bins required to recycle properly”.

Richard Simmons, CABE chief executive, said: “This research brings into question the argument that the market will meet the demands of people living in private housing developments.

“We need local planning authorities to ensure much higher space standards before giving developments the go-ahead.”

Over half (57%) of owners polled said their new build home doesn’t have enough storage space.

More than a third (35%) said they don’t have enough kitchen space for appliances, and 47% said their home is too small for the furniture they own or would like to have.

CABE said larger homes could have educational and health benefits.

For example, homes with enough space for a family dining table would encourage families to eat together, building relationships and promoting healthy eating habits.