Mark has asked the Housing Ministers if they will work with developers to increase the proportion of new apartments in urban areas which are built with balconies so that as many people as possible have easy access to some outside space.

The Housing Ministers responded that the Government's National Design Guide, which informs local planning policies, emphasises the benefits that balconies on new apartments can bring in supporting the health and wellbeing of residents.

Local councils should also use housing design codes to consider the provision and size of balconies on new apartments in their area.

Mark said:

"It is important that new home developers are mindful of their responsibilities to their customers and local communities in designing homes which don't just put a roof over people's heads, but also promote health and wellbeing."