 "Urban Development ministry allows building of service apartments in Delhi hotels")
Delhi Development Authority (DDA) had made a proposal in this regard after detailed deliberations and a formal notification would be issued shortly, according to an official statement from the urban development ministry.
According to the new rules for Development Controls for Commercial Centres pertaining to hotels, a maximum of 40 per cent of floor area ratio (FAR) can be used for the commercial offices, retail and service shops and residential purposes. However, residential units would be permissible up to a maximum of 20 per cent of this.
Earlier, FAR of 20 per cent only was allowed for commercial purposes which now stands increased to 40 per cent with the inclusion of residential use. This additional FAR will be allowed subject to payment of charges to be prescribed.
The transfer of ownership of such residential units built in hotels would be permissible only if the hotel land is freehold. If the land is leasehold, transfer of ownership would be allowed only after DDA frame rules for this purpose.
This will address the needs of special category of persons/visitors/tourists/business delegations from both within and outside the country who would like to stay for longer period which is not allowed in hotels. This would also help improve the viability of hospitality industry through increased commercial uses like shopping services, sale of handicrafts, the statement added.