Jobs, Growth and Social inclusion

Resilience

Climate Change

The reduction in energy use and carbon emissions in the built environment is universally agreed to be vital if the UK is to achieve the legally binding Net Zero 2050 targets. Part of fulfilling this objective is the need to reduce the energy consumption of new homes by 50% by 2030. This requires careful design, reduced energy use by better technology, as well as influencing occupants’ behaviour. There is an urgent need to commission independent research on matters such as Climate Change and Fire Safety. This evidenced based approach will help to ensure that any changes to the way we construct, insulate and ventilate our buildings, do not result in unintended consequences. We must avoid making emotional decisions and acting before we have the social and economic solutions in place, including UK manufacturing and a trained workforce. A fabric-first design-approach is vital. Whilst further improvements to newbuild will contribute to reducing energy consumption, targets will only be met if we intervene at scale to improve the existing housing stock.


Design versus Performance and Quality

iStock-909799254It is important to strive for excellence through effective design, construction and maintenance of all buildings. Reoccurring poor performance issues should be identified and eradicated. A cultural change, similar to the way the industry has embraced health and safety, is required and needs to be supported through training and enhanced quality control on site.

The CITB levy should fund Continuous Professional Development for all those working in ‘core’ building trades.

The Government should actively consult on ways to improve quality, increasing consumer confidence, enhancing safety, and improving communication for all involved in the design and construction of new build and renovation projects.
 

Fire and Building Resilience

The tragedy of Grenfell changes everything. Avoidance of major loss of life and property through fire is nonnegotiable. Where practical any building where there is a sleep risk or where vulnerable people are likely to be present should be constructed using noncombustible materials.

Thermal mass and well-designed ventilation will reduce overheating and enhance indoor air quality. Appropriate interventions now will avoid an increase in the use of air conditioning that would undermine our obligations to meet Net Zero 2050.
 

Regulations and Standards

Carefully considered regulations and standards provide a codified system of ensuring safe and resilient construction of built environment. Post-Brexit it is essential that we continue to play an active role in standards setting through bodies such as CEN. In meeting the challenges presented by climate change and the Grenfell tragedy, we believe a healthy and strong industry that engages in participation in a collaborative way. This, in turn, requires ownership of the objectives whilst engaging In proper research, investment and an implementation period ensuring UKproduced products through a highly trained workforce.

 
recommendations

Latest News


PRESS INFORMATION                 Release date: 17 June 2024  “Get Britain Building” to drive economic growth A

Read More

An £11.27bn investment in construction and a series of strategic decisions around new home building can kick start the UK’s economic recovery and deliver a £33bn return for the Gover

Read More

Analysis by the Local Government Association shows that 2,564,600 units have been granted planning permission by councils since 2009/10 while only 1,530,680 have been completed. The association sai

Read More