Boris Johnson calls for end to cramped living conditions

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A study from the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment found that new-build properties failed to provide enough space for everyday living.

The owners of 2,500 private new homes built between 2003 and 2006, including flats, houses and bungalows, were interviewed for the report.

It revealed that private homes did not provide enough space to prepare food easily, have friends round for a meal or find a quiet place to relax. The study echoed Mayor Boris Johnson's call for an end to Londoners being forced to live in cramped conditions in "Hobbit homes".

A month ago the Mayor told housing experts that the "scale of the human butt" should determine the minimum size of new homes, and that "the human buttocks are not getting any smaller." Mr Johnson wants to lay down a minimum space standard for homes to accommodate people.

Almost half of those questioned in the Cabe research said there was not enough space for small children to play safely in the kitchen while meals are being prepared and not enough room for all the furniture they have or would like to have.

Over a third said they did not have enough kitchen space for appliances such as a toaster or a microwave.

Fifty-seven per cent complained about inadequate storage space and nearly three in four said they did not have enough space for the three small bins required to recycle waste. Cabe chief executive Richard Simmons said: "We need local planning authorities to ensure much higher space standards before giving developments the go-ahead. Cabe believes that increased space in homes has direct implications for national policy priorities such as health, education and recycling. For example, dining as a family could encourage healthier eating habits and stronger family relationships.

"Children without space to entertain friends will do so outside the home, beyond parental supervision."

Cabe wants local authorities to approve only developments that include sufficient space in new homes. The Mayor's rules will not come into effect until 2011 - and will only apply to social housing, not private homes.