Government accused of permitting a planning ‘free-for-all’ by allowing developers to convert office blocks into flats without the usual controls

Labour has been accused of allowing developers to build a new generation of “slum” homes by converting office blocks into flats without planning permission.

The controversial projects will boost Keir Starmer’s drive to build 1.5m new homes in England but have been labelled a “free-for-all” for developers. Many of these commercial blocks are built on industrial estates or business parks, with complaints of poor ventilation and no access to private outdoor space.