Cabinet 'approves easing of restrictions on one-off houses'

The Cabinet has reportedly approved plans to ease restrictions on the building of one-off houses in rural areas.

Reports this morning said the new rules would allow such houses to be built in special designated areas of conservation, heritage and protection.

The rules will also reportedly ease restrictions on the design of one-off houses, including bans on certain types and colour of brick and slate.

The new regulations are due to be published later today by Minister for the Environment Dick Roche.