Homebuilding & Renovating

5 days ago | homebuilding.co.uk | Joseph Mullane

A former Premier League striker’s plans to renovate his Norwich home have sparked a row after being approved without going to committee. Dean Ashton’s application for major works on a Victorian terrace in a conservation area in Cambridge Street drew strong objections from neighbours. But Norwich City Council approved the plans using delegated powers – meaning full planning permission wasn't required – a move some locals say shut them out of the process.

6 days ago | homebuilding.co.uk | Joseph Mullane

The UK’s biggest housebuilders are under scrutiny as the Competition and Markets Authority investigates possible anti-competitive behaviour. The probe, now extended until August 2025, is looking into whether firms shared sensitive information that may have delayed developments and affected prices of new homes. While no formal conclusions have been reached, the inquiry raises concerns about how these practices could be affecting those looking to self-build and homebuyers.

1 week ago | homebuilding.co.uk | Natasha Brinsmead

An office on the landing that uses the space at the top or halfway up your stairs might not be the most obvious spot for you home office design ideas, but this approach actually makes a great deal of sense. "Creating a home office on a landing can be a brilliant use of space, especially in period homes where alcoves or wider corridors are often underused," explains Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Design Studio.

1 week ago | homebuilding.co.uk | Joseph Mullane

In a bid to make lawn care more sustainable at her countryside home in the Cotswolds, Ellen DeGeneres tried swapping out the lawnmower for a flock of sheep. The idea was simple – let the animals graze the grass, naturally maintaining the lawn without fuel, noise, or effort. “Turns out my lawn mowing skills are not great,” Ellen joked in a social media post.

1 week ago | homebuilding.co.uk | Joseph Mullane

Just west of Corwen in the peaceful village of Druid, a derelict stone barn is offering a rare opportunity for renovators with a vision. The secluded 0.16-acre freehold plot provides easy access to Snowdonia National Park and the wider North Wales countryside. With full planning permission already granted for a barn conversioninto a holiday let in one of the region’s most scenic settings, it's a fantastic opportunity to get your hands on a unique property.