(Translated) What plans does the Minister have to update house building regulations to ensure all new homes are built in line with the Welsh Government’s climate change reduction targets?

Part L of the building regulations, covering the conservation of fuel and power, sets energy efficiency requirements for new buildings. Part L is currently being reviewed with the intention to achieve a significant step towards zero-carbon new housing. A public consultation on proposals is anticipated this summer.

(Translated) Will the Minister make a statement on the future of town and community councils?

A written statement setting out the future role of the community and town council sector in Wales was issued on 30 November.

(Translated) What is the Welsh Government doing to support innovative housing schemes?

We are investing £90 million over three years to support innovative housing schemes across Wales. There are currently 45 innovative schemes benefiting from our investment. I will announce additional schemes successful in the third year of the innovative housing programme, from both the private and public sector, later this year.

(Translated) Will the Minister make a statement on the availability of suitable social housing for disabled people?

A range of grant programmes enable the adaptation of existing social housing to meet disabled tenants’ needs. We are investing for the future with specialist housing-led projects funded through the integrated care fund and by requiring that our new-build social housing is built to the lifetime homes standard.

(Translated) Will the Minister outline how local authorities take the provision of health services into account when discussing planning applications?

Provision of health services should be considered during local development plan preparation, providing certainty for communities, developers and local health board investment decisions. Planning applications must be determined in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Where necessary, health boards may be consulted on planning applications.