'Consequential Improvements' proposals dropped
Posted: 23/06/2009
A proposed plan to make energy efficiency improvements compulsory when extending homes has been scrapped by the government. The draft consultation on the 2010 Part L of the Building Regulations, launched recently by Housing Minister John Healey, was supposed to include measures for 'consequential improvements' in existing homes. This would have meant that homeowners who substantially altered their properties through... more
Source: Stephen Kennet/Building.co.uk   

Ozone destroying gases could be released by demolishing buildings
Posted: 01/06/2009
Pollution from the demolition of old buildings could blow a gaping hole in government attempts to tackle global warming, according to Rob Edwards, writing in the Sunday Herald. Ministers have been accused of "a scandal and a cover-up" for failing to devise a strategy for dealing with the huge amount of hazardous chemicals contained in old insulation foam. more
Source: Rob Edwards / Sunday Herald   

Chancellor allocates £1billion for green industries
Posted: 22/04/2009
In todays budget Chancellor Alistair Darling has announced "There will be 1 billion pounds to help us combat climate change, by supporting low carbon industries and green collar jobs. There is close to 1 billion pounds to help homeowners, meet future housing supply and allow the construction industry to recover quickly." more
Source: Green Building Press   

Green building partnership wins an award
Posted: 07/04/2009
A green building project involving Hill Holt Wood social enterprise and the University of Lincoln has won a national award. The scheme, to design and construct a range of autonomous eco buildings came after University’s Lincoln School of Architecture became involved in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Hill Holt Wood – a social enterprise based on the Lincolnshire-Nottinghamshire border which is recognised as an.... more
Source: Green Building Press   

New London hospital 'green as possible'
Posted: 25/03/2009
Work has begun on a new development at Great Ormond Street Hospital which will use energy saving technology, green roofs and natural light in a bid to become the UK's most environmentally friendly medical centre. The £300 million Mittal Children's Medical Centre will comprise of two linked buildings at the children's hospital, housing new wards, operating theatres, offices and a restaurant. more
Source: 24dash.com   

Zero carbon targets should be 'more flexible' - RIBA
Posted: 24/03/2009
The government should implement a more flexible definition of 'zero carbon', say The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). In its response to the Definition of Zero Carbon Homes and Non-Domestic Buildings consultation, the Institute has called for a reclassification of district power and heating schemes, alongside a national energy trajectory to underpin future efforts to achieve 80% zero carbon by 2050... more
Source: Green Building Press