New research has revealed over 90% of MPs from all parties believe converting empty spaces above shops could help tackle the UK's housing crisis.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said it is estimated around 300,000 to 400,000 new homes could be created by using empty spaces above shops.

The survey results, published alongside the FMB's new research report titled 'Homes on our high streets', reveals MPs believe there are a number of benefits to converting empty spaces;

• 94% of MPs believe it could reverse the housing shortage in their constituency

• 89% of MPs say it could boost local growth in their area

• 86% of MPs think it could have a positive impact on the vibrancy of their town centres

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Mr Berry said: "The fact that 90% of MPs of all parties recognise the potential of our existing buildings to help solve the housing crisis means we need to be more imaginative if we are going to build the 300,000 homes a year that the Chancellor pledged in last month's Budget.

"Taking a number of case studies from town centres from right across Great Britain, our research highlights the opportunities that exist for creating new homes in a range of different building types. It demonstrates what could be achieved by innovative and ambitious development. The report puts councils at the heart of the solution and suggests some practical ways for them to facilitate the development of wasted space above shops."

Mr Berry continued by saying councils should include proposals to make use of spaces in their planning documents, as well as helping to find ways to overcome the various barriers such as limited building access.

"Building new homes is important, but a great deal can also be achieved through making better use of our existing buildings," he said.

"There will always be a place for vibrant high streets within our market towns but if not all of this space can be used for commercial reasons, let's make use of it for residential and help increase the supply of new homes."

(LM/MH)