Planning change to make installing heat pump easier for millions

A key planning restriction that heat pumps need to be one metre from a neighbour's property has been lifted as the government seeks to accelerate the take up of the low-carbon technology.

The change, which is part of the government's Warm Homes Plan to lower household bills and cut planet warming emissions, means it could be easier for millions of homes in England to have a heat pump installed.

But consumer groups warn that the changes will not help those in rented or leasehold properties and the biggest barrier to installing a heat pump remains the high upfront costs.

This is a particular problem for older housing stock where upgrades to pipework and insulation may also be required.