Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

IHBC articles

2026-09-06T05:33:54Z

Designing Buildings:

This is a list of articles on Conservation Wiki that were created by The Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC), and the date that they were added to Conservation Wiki.

[[Ihbc_articles_2|For older IHBC articles click here.]]

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# Power for the people. September 2026
# Leaders in Learning for Practice Network. August 2026
# The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. August 2026
# Scotland’s uplifting heritage. August 2026
# Campaigning for Edinburgh: the Cockburn Association 1875-2049. August 2026
# Reflections on railway heritage. July 2026
# England's Suburbs 1820-2020. July 2026
# Historic England and infrastructure. June 2026
# The protection and reuse of large industrial structures. June 2026
# Spelling it out. May 2026.
# IHBC celebrates World Heritage UK’s anniversary. May 2026.
# The sad story of Derby Hippodrome. May 2026.
# Conserving the postmodern legacy of the Sainsbury Wing. May 2026.
# The roofscape of Hampstead Garden Suburb. April 2026
# Sourcing Scottish slate in the 21st century. April 2026
# Called-in decision Ref 23/00612/FUL (NOD-390-001). April 2026
# Planning appeal summaries 2025. April 2026
# Anesco Ltd v Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and Anor. April 2026
# Successful solar generation in the historic environment. April 2026
# Heritage Now, No 12, Summer 2025. April 2026
# A carbon case for indigenous slate. April 2026
# Historic Environment Policy and Practice Vol 16, No 1, 2025. April 2026
# ‎The Manifesto House: Buildings that changed the future of architecture. March 2026
# Georgian Group Journal Vol XXXIII, 2025. March 2026
# The Georgian Issue 1, 2025. March 2026
# C20, No 1 2025. March 2026
# IHBC 2025 Gus Astley Student Award winners. March 2026
# The Royal Pavilion Brighton: a Regency palace of colour and sensation. March 2026
# ‎Reslating an ancient water mill. March 2026
# Mills News, April 2025 (No 182). March 2026
# Poetry from concrete: Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture. March 2026
# Illuminating stained glass: creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. March 2026.
# A code of practice for slate and stone roofing. February 2026.
# Ten years of Planning Club. February 2026.
# Understanding pitched roofs. February 2026.
# SPAB Magazine Summer 2025. February 2026.
# IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development. February 2026.
# Too much stuff. February 2026.
# Summoned by bells. February 2026.
# ‎Judicial review regarded a planning permission for a McDonalds restaurant. January 2026.
# A certificate of lawful use or development for solar panels (Ref 3349450). January 2026.
# ‎Impact on a non-designated heritage asset (Ref 3343408)
# The Warm Homes Plan details released. (mention), January 2026.
# PPG updates on brownfield land. January 2026.
# I Patarkatsishvili and Y Hunyak v W Woodward-Fisher. January 2026.
# Old buildings and oligarchs. January 2026.
# Written ministerial statements on planning 2025. January 2026.
# The world of generative AI. January 2026.
# Replacing Brighton Museum's roof lantern. January 2026.
# Nineteenth-century conservation thinking from Ruskin onwards. January 2026.
# The Tenement Revealed: history, design and construction. January 2026.
# Discovering Jane Jacobs. December 2025.
# Heritage Now Spring 2025. December 2025.
# Wayland Young. December 2025.
# SPAB Magazine Spring 2025. December 2025.
# SAVE at 50: Celebrating half a century of campaigning. December 2025.
# Dorset Houses: from Bronze Age to 21st century. December 2025.
# John Ashurst: practitioner, writer and educator. December 2025.
# Journal of Historic Buildings and Places, Vol 4, 2025. December 2025.
# Construction and the autumn Budget 2025 (mention). December 2025.
# Inclusive, values-based conservation to 2008. December 2025.
# The Cottage in Interwar England: class and the picturesque. November 2025.
# St Jude-on-the-Hill Church. November 2025.
# Cambridge's Mill Road Free Library, part 3. November 2025.
# IHBC Parliamentary Briefing launches 5 commitments to help heritage skills in conservation. November 2025.
# The literary food chain. November 2025.
# Chris Topp, heritage blacksmith. November 2025.
# War Memorials Trust Bulletin. November 2025.
# The destruction of the English country house. November 2025.
# Nairn's Liverpool revisited. November 2025.
# Heritage, ageing and wellbeing. October 2025.
# Historic Environment Policy and Practice Vol 15, No 3 2024. October 2025.
# The Crooked House pub. October 2025.
# Unforgettable gardens: 500 years of historic gardens and landscapes. October 2025.
# Operation Nightingale. October 2025.
# The Georgian Issue 2, 2024. October 2025.
# Between Design and Making: architecture and craftsmanship 1630-1760. October 2025.
# Healing through heritage. October 2025.
# Moulds in historic buildings (repost). October 2025.
# Workplace wellbeing in the heritage sector. September 2025
# ‎Journal of Architectural Conservation Vol 30 Nos 2 and 3 July and November 2024. September 2025
# RIBA Conservation Guide. September 2025
# SPAB Magazine Winter 2024. September 2025
# The IHBC Gus Astley Student Awards. September 2025
# The economics of heritage and wellbeing. September 2025
# Construction History Vol 39, No 2, 2024. September 2025
# Northwold Manor Reborn: architecture, archaeology and restoration of a derelict Norfolk house. September 2025
# Construction Historian Winter 2024-25‎. September 2025
# Wellbeing and heritage: making a difference. Aug 2025
# C20 Magazine Issue 2024 2. Aug 2025
# Repurposing Empty Spaces a report by Habitat for Humanity. Aug 2025
# IHBC Listed Buildings Prosecutions Database. Aug 2025
# CREATIVE Conservation Fund. Aug 2025
# John Soane's Cabinet of Curiosities. Aug 2025
# The Historic Buildings Parks & Gardens Event and Historic Houses (IHBC mention). Aug 2025
# Rex Whistler: the artist and his patrons. July 2025
# Travels with Baedeker. July 2025
# The conservation of post-war housing. July 2025
# In the footsteps of Alec Clifton-Taylor. July 2025
# George Edmund Street. July 2025
# Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. June 2025
# Researching and restoring Abbotsford's hothouse. June 2025
# A people-first approach to retrofit. June 2025
# ASCHB Transactions Volume 45 2024. June 2025
# Sustainable heating for listed buildings. June 2025
# Venice a lecture by Sir Ashley Clarke. June 2025
# SPAB Magazine Autumn 2024. June 2025
# Edwin Rickards. May 2025
# The Remarkable Pinwill Sisters. May 2025
# Design and construction industry podcasts (mention). May 2025
# Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. May 2025.
# Hidden in plain sight. May 2025.
# Ludwig Mies van der Rohe: Villa Wolf in Gubin, history and reconstruction. May 2025.
# The ability to retrofit is important in all areas of life. May 2025.
# The Buildings of the Malting Industry. May 2025
# Connecting people and places with climate impacts. May 2025
# British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951. April 2025
# Blue plaques. April 2025
# The architectural use of wood and coal tar in England. April 2025
# Interwar: British architecture 1919-39. April 2025
# ‎Prefabs at Wake Green Road in Moseley. April 2025
# IHBC Stress Awareness Month; Heritage Staff wellbeing at work survey. April 2025
# Heritage Now No 9 Summer 2024. April 2025
# Georgian Group Journal 2024‎. April 2025
# The maintenance challenge of urban housing in Scotland. April 2025
# Gentrification in London. March 2025
# Journal of Historic Buildings and Places 2024. March 2025
# Planning and Infrastructure bill (mention in response). March 2025
# Saving DH Lawrence's birthplace. March 2025
# The Georgian No 1, 2024. March 2025
# The revival of urban council housing. March 2025
# Historic Environment Policy and Practice Vol 15 No 2 2024. March 2025
# Attending a conservation training course, personal account (mention). March 2025
# Restoring Alexander Pope's Grotto. March 2025.
# Heritage building skills and live-site training. February 2025
# The battle for Cambridge's Mill Road Free Library, part 2. February 2025
# Developing the UK world heritage tentative list. February 2025
# Heritage, industry and slavery. February 2025
# Hardwick Old Hall, Derbyshire. February 2025
# Bats in churches. February 2025
# Heritage management plans and historic landscapes. February 2025
# Don't take British stone for granted. February 2025
# Alexander Ross: the remarkable story of a Highland architect. February 2025
# Birkenhead Park. January 2025
# The Construction Historian Issue 13 Spring 2024. January 2025
# Saving traditional orchards. January 2025
# Building with flint. January 2025
# The heritage of urban trees. January 2025
# SPAB Magazine Spring 2024. January 2025
# Shaping the Northern Forest. January 2025
# C20 Magazine Issue 2023 2‎. January 2025
# Journeys in Industrious England. December 2024
# Life and death at Highgate Cemetery. December 2024
# Value transitions between heritage and nature. December 2024
# Heritage Now No 8 Spring 2024. December 2024
# Historic digital survey: Conservation in the age of the fourth (digital) industrial revolution. December 2024
# Shaping the future of heritage: Embracing the evolution of economic thinking. December 2024
# Heritage development trusts' top tips. December 2024
# ‎Heritage conservation and the triple bottom line. November 2024
# Climate action: Comfort is a crucial missing piece of the puzzle. November 2024
# 60th Jubilee History of Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust and 30th Jubilee History of BEAMS. November 2024
# Connecting conservation research and practice with IHBC. October 2024‎
# ‎Boundaries and networks. October 2024‎
# 178a High Road, Leytonstone. October 2024‎
# ‎The Mill, Craven Arms, SY7 9DT. October 2024‎
# Mill Hall, Lancaster. October 2024‎
# ‎Land south-east of the Manor House, Riding Mill. October 2024‎
# Architecture in Britain and Ireland, 1530 - 1830. October 2024‎
# ‎Land east of Knowle Lane, Cranleigh. October 2024‎
# ‎R v Evetts. October 2024‎
# [[Simmonds,_R_(on_the_application_of)_v_Venture_Properties_Group_and_Ors_(2023)_EWHC_2217_(KB)_(15_September_2023)|‎Simmonds, R (on the application of) v Venture Properties Group and Ors (2023) EWHC 2217]]. October 2024‎
# ‎Mill Road Free Library. October 2024‎
# This is Architecture: writing on buildings. October 2024‎
# Nairn's Manchester revisited. October 2024‎
# Reading Ruskin's Cultural Heritage: conservation and transformation. October 2024‎
# Union Chain Bridge. October 2024‎
# Construction History Vol 38, No 2, 2023. October 2024‎
# New HES national centre for traditional building retrofit. October 2024‎
# Traditional Brickwork: construction, repair and maintenance. September 2024‎
# Regeneration in Carlisle. September 2024‎
# APT Bulletin. September 2024‎
# Association of Preservation Technology Bulletin Vol LIII No 4 2023. September 2024‎
# Bastles. September 2024‎
# Georgian Group Newsletter (No 2, 2023). September 2024‎
# Cumbria's vernacular architecture and Hadrian's Wall. September 2024‎
# What happened to Hadrian's Wall? August 2024‎
# Hadrian's Wall Path and the national trails. August 2024‎
# SPAB Magazine Winter 2023. August 2024‎
# Hadrian's Wall from end to end. August 2024‎
# Brighton Dome reopens. August 2024‎
# Secured by Design for historic buildings. August 2024‎
# IHBC launches affiliate fast-track pilot for local authority conservation staff. August 2024‎
# Brittany. August 2024
# Application for planning permission for the Marks and Spencer building, Orchard House, Oxford Street, London. July 2024
# ‎Kazalbash v Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and the London Borough of Hillingdon Council. July 2024
# Crooked House, Himley. July 2024Cycling exploration. July 2024
# Listing Glasgow's Kingston Bridge. July 2024
# Conservation and the Indian City: bridging the gap. July 2024
# Reversibility in conservation ethics. July 2024
# High Street: how our centres can bounce back from the retail crisis. July 2024
# Clovelly. July 2024
# Building for Change: the architecture of creative reuse. June 2024
# Solar panels and listed structures. June 2024
# Bulletin of the War Memorials Trust. June 2024
# Tithe barns.June 2024
# Journal of Architectural Conservation Vol 29, No 2 and 3, 2023. June 2024
# Urban fringe. May 2024.
# The Victorian No 73 July 2023. May 2024.
# Rural buildings at risk. May 2024.
# Construction Historian Issue 12 Summer 2023. May 2024.
# Understanding vernacular architecture. May 2024.
# SPAB Magazine autumn 2023. May 2024.
# Conserving our tree heritage in a time of climate crisis. March 2024.
# Guidance on RAAC in Listed Buildings (mention). March 2024.
# Overheating buildings: learning from the past. March 2024.
# The conversion of St Luke's church in Cwmbwrla. March 2024.
# IHBC launches climate change hub. March 2024.
# The women who shaped British modernism (repost for Women's history month). March 2024.
# The Historic Environment: policy and practice Vol 14, No 2, 2023. March 2024.
# ‎Construction History Vol 38, No 1, 2023. March 2024.
# ‎Journal of Architectural Conservation Vol 29, No 1, March 2023. March 2024.
# The Medieval Stained Glass of Herefordshire and Shropshire. March 2024.
# Upgrading metal windows for thermal comfort. February 2024.
# Journal of Historic Buildings and Places Vol 2 2023. February 2024.
# Vitrolite. February 2024.
# Heritage Now Issue 2 2023. February 2024.
# Revaluing Modern Architecture: changing conservation culture. February 2024.
# The wrought-iron greenhouse at Felton Park. February 2024.
# Ordinary people in stained glass. January 2024.
# Georgian Arcadia: architecture for the park and garden. January 2024.
# Conserving Canterbury Cathedral's Great South Window. January 2024.
# The Georgian, Issue 1, 2023. January 2024.
# The history of glass in the UK and Ireland. January 2024.
# SPAB Magazine summer 2023. January 2024.
# Artificial intelligence and real stupidity. December 2023.
# Ian Wray. December 2023.
# IHBC charter petition. December 2023.
# Planning decision to allow photovoltaic panels on the roof of King's College Chapel. December 2023.
# Painting in Stone: architecture and the poetics of marble from antiquity to the enlightenment. December 2023.
# The history of Tower Hamlets. December 2023.
# Donald Buttress. December 2023.
# Grimsby's Kasbah. December 2023.
# 2023 Autumn Statement in brief with reactions (IHBC mention). November 2023.
# Where is the data on listed buildings? November 2023.
# Consultation on joint Conservation Professional Practice Principles. November 2023.
# London brick by brick. November 2023.
# Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023. November 2023.
# Jodrell Bank. October 2023.
# Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal World Heritage Site. October 2023.
# Holy Houses: places of worship in twentieth-century Britain. October 2023.
# IHBC updates competence descriptors. October 2023.
# SPAB Magazine Spring 2023. October 2023.
# The Victorian, March 2023 (No 72). October 2023.
# World Heritage in the UK. October 2023.
# #The Association of Preservation Technology Bulletin Vol LIII, Nos 2–3, 2022. October 2023.
# Britain's industrial heritage. October 2023.
# World heritage status for Odesa. October 2023.
# Guest Editor Seán O'Reilly Director of The Institute of Historic Building Conservation‎. September 2023.
# Introducing the IHBC Heritage Marketplace. September 2023.
# RAAC causes temporary closure of St Davids Hall. September 2023.
# Historic England carbon literacy training courses. September 2023.
# IHBC welcomes September Heritage Open Days. September 2023.
# Seeing things differently. August 2023.
# Top Ten Bucket and Spade Seaside Experiences from the Seaside Heritage Network. August 2023.
# Heritage Research Award 2023. August 2023.
# IHBC Gus Astley Student Awards 2023. (repost). August 2023.
# Piercefield Park. August 2023.
# Community groups involvement in heritage regeneration. August 2023.
# Jaywick Sand. August 2023.
# IHBC Gus Astley Student Awards 2023. August 2023.
# Conservation skills training in a Norwich church. July 2023.
# Boston's pubs. July 2023.
# The history of Boston. July 2023.
# The history of Southend-on-sea. July 2023.
# Supporting Norfolk's churches. July 2023.
# Lowestoft's heritage action zones. July 2023.
# Orford Ness: resolving a landscape in conflict. July 2023.
# UNESCO World Heritage Status tentative list. July 2023.
# A Bittersweet Heritage: slavery, architecture and the British landscape. June 2023
# The Red House in Aldeburgh. June 2023
# Conserving Great Yarmouth's cultural heritage. May 2023.
# The Victorian, No 71, November 2022. May 2023.
# IHBC Marsh Awards 2023 winners announced. May 2023.
# Dawn Bowden to address 2023 IHBC Day School. May 2023.
# IHBC Heritage MarketPlace 2023. May 2023.
# The effigy of Blanche Mortimer. April 2023.
# The Blower Foundation. April 2023.
# IHBC Research for Practice Digest (RfP). April 2023.
# A Life of Industry: the photography of John R Hume. April 2023.
# Conservation in South Georgia. April 2023.
# Essential urban design. April 2023
# A short history of good ideas. April 2023
# HESPR: the impartial way. March 2023
# Georgian Group Journal. March 2023
# Economically, environmentally and socially sustainable places that support built and historic environment conservation. March 2023
# Updating Conservation Professional Practice Principles. March 2023
# ‎Journal of Historic Buildings and Places. March 2023
# The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Conservation, Places and People. March 2023
# Association of Preservation Technology Bulletin Vol LIII, No 1, 2022. March 2023
# Arts and Crafts Architecture: 'Beauty's Awakening'. March 2023
# Energy Security Strategy and heritage. March 2023
# Johannes Kip. February 2023.
# IHBC at 25, where it came from, how it has evolved and where it might go. February 2023.
# Moseley School of Art. February 2023.
# Diversity and inclusion in conservation training. February 2023.
# Is a hot dog a sandwich. January 2023
# Making Greyfriars accessible. January 2023
# IHBC welcomes Levelling Up Fund focus on places and heritage for people. January 2023
# Soho Manufactory, Mint and Foundry, West Midlands: where Boulton, Watt and Murdoch made history. January 2023
# Diversity in the heritage workspace. January 2023
# Steel Architecture: the designed landscape of modernity. January 2023
# Heritage and mental health. January 2023
# Boston Council Section 215 prosecution for failure to maintain listed building. January 2023
# Chatham Historic Dockyard: world power to resurgence. January 2023
# The women who shaped British modernism. January 2023
# IHBC says farewell to 2022 with top 10 NewsBlogs. January 2023
# IHBC signpost update from Lords Committee on climate.December 2022
# Conserving the Historic Environment. December 2022
# Pride of Place: queer heritage. December 2022
# MPs back targeted Listed Buildings VAT cuts & presumption against demolition. December 2022
# The Value of Heritage report APPG CPP 2022. December 2022.
# Quakers and their Meeting Houses. December 2022.
# Equity, diversity and inclusion in the heritage sector. December 2022.
# ‎Queer Spaces: an atlas of LGBTQIAplus places and stories. December 2022.
# How architecture can suppress cultural identity. December 2022.
# Shop signs. November 2022
# Masters of their Craft: the art, architecture and garden design of the Nesfields. November 2022
# Demolishing Whitehall. November 2022
# Aspects of copper roofing. November 2022
# Iron frames in textile mills. November 2022
# Cathodic protection in church towers. November 2022
# Pier Paolo Pasolini. November 2022
# Interview with Liz Mayle. November 2022
# Oasts and Hop Kilns: a history. October 2022
# IHBC25 - marking IHBC's silver anniversary. October 2022
# Britain's 100 Best Railway Stations. October 2022
# What does conservation practice entail? October 2022
# Two Men in a Boat: rowing two rivers. October 2022
# ‎Moulds in historic buildings. October 2022
# The Architecture and Legacy of British Railway Buildings: 1825 to present day. October 2022
# Shipton Sollars St Mary. October 2022
# Kyiv: a tour of the city. October 2022
# Construction History Vol 36, No 2, 2021. October 2022
# IHBC Membership Application Training Events MATE. September 2022
# 59 Greek Street: home of the Theatre Girls' Club. September 2022
# Planning reform in England. September 2022
# Design codes: intentions and reality. September 2022
# The Construction Historian, Issue 9, March 2022. September 2022
# Design codes and pattern books. September 2022
# The Association of Preservation Technology Bulletin (Vol LII, No 4, 2021). September 2022
# Investigation of moisture and its effects on traditional buildings. September 2022
# The history of building regulations and control. September 2022
# ASCHB Transactions. September 2022
# SAHGB-IHBC Heritage Research Award 2022‎. August 2022
# IHBC Gus Astley Student Awards 2022. August 2022
# ‎Interview with Michael Foley. August 2022
# IHBC Affiliate status. August 2022
# IHBC respond to Parliamentary Committee on Levelling-Up and Regeneration Bill. August 2022
# Landownership in England in 1909. August 2022
# The restoration of Thiepval. August 2022
# Cemetourism. July 2022

[[Ihbc_articles_2|For older IHBC articles click here.]]

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--[[User:Institute_of_Historic_Building_Conservation|Institute of Historic Building Conservation]]

[[Category:DCN_Organisation]] [[Category:Conservation]]

About Conservation Wiki

2026-09-06T05:30:09Z

Designing Buildings:

[[Power_for_the_people|Power for the people]]

[[File:Ratcliffe cooling towers 350.jpg|link=Power_for_the_people]]

The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.

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[[Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network|Leaders in Learning for Practice Network]]

[[File:IHBC_logo_350.png|link=Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network]]

Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

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[[The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times|Sixty years in practice]]

[[File:William_butterfield_350.jpg|link=The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times]]

The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

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[[Connecting_knowledge,_technology_and_conservation:_Building_competence_for_the_future_of_built_heritage|Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation]]

[[File:Cotac_learning_documents_350.jpg|link=Connecting_knowledge,_technology_and_conservation:_Building_competence_for_the_future_of_built_heritage]]

Building competence for the future of built heritage.

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[[Scotlands_uplifting_heritage|Sir William Arrol and Co]]

[[File:William_arrol_collection_350.jpg|link=Scotlands_uplifting_heritage]]

An extraordinary record of steel engineering worldwide.

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[[Campaigning_for_Edinburgh:_the_Cockburn_Association_1875-2049|Campaigning for Edinburgh: the Cockburn Association 1875-2049]]

[[File:Campaign_for_edinburgh_350.jpg|link=Campaigning_for_Edinburgh:_the_Cockburn_Association_1875-2049]]

The role of the civic voice in protecting character. Book review.

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[[Reflections_on_railway_heritage|Listed structures on the rail network]]

[[File:Stockton_and_Darlington_Railway_350.jpg|link=Reflections_on_railway_heritage]]

Heritage interests and operational requirements must be balanced.

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[https://architecturaltechnology.com/resource/heritage-conservation-science-workforce-survey-have-your-say.html AT, 15 July]

[[File:Institute_of_conservation_350.jpg|link=https://architecturaltechnology.com/resource/heritage-conservation-science-workforce-survey-have-your-say.html]]

Heritage and conservation science workforce survey - Have your say.

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[[England's_Suburbs_1820-2020|Suburban nation]]

[[File:Englands_suburbs_350.jpg|link=England's_Suburbs_1820-2020]]

England's Suburbs 1820-2020. Book review.

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[[Historic_England_and_infrastructure|Historic England and infrastructure]]

[[File:Upminster_tithe_barn_350.jpg|link=Historic_England_and_infrastructure]]

New projects offer opportunities for the historic environment and local communities.

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[[The_protection_and_reuse_of_large_industrial_structures|The adaptive reuse of large industrial structures.]]

[[File:Cottam_power_station_350.jpg|link=The_protection_and_reuse_of_large_industrial_structures]]

Promoting the circular economy by extending the life of buildings.

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[https://newsblogs.ihbc.org.uk/?p=47041 IHBC, 12 June]

[[File:DBi_call_to_action_350.png|link=https://newsblogs.ihbc.org.uk/?p=47041]]

Opportunity to join the new Designing Buildings intelligence market research Advisory Panel.

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News from the web

2026-09-06T05:29:35Z

Designing Buildings:

Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.

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[[Power_for_the_people|Power for the people]]

[[File:Ratcliffe cooling towers 350.jpg|link=Power_for_the_people]]

The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.

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[[New_measures_to_clampdown_on_cowboy_builders_and_rogue_bailiffs|New measures to stop people being ripped off]]

[[File:Andy_burnham_350.jpg|link=New_measures_to_clampdown_on_cowboy_builders_and_rogue_bailiffs]]

Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.

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[[UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase|UK Construction Week]]

[[File:Ukcw_2026_innovation_350.jpg|link=UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase]]

New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.

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[[Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026|National Planning Policy Framework]]

[[File:Nppf_2026_350.jpg|link=Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026]]

Understanding the 2026 changes.

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[[Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities|ECA's public affairs priorities]]

[[File:ECA_logo_blue_cropped_350.jpg|link=Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities]]

Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.

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[[Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities|Domestic projects in Wales]]

[[File:Welsh_Gov-350.jpg|link=Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities]]

Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.

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[[Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham|Where performance meets practice]]

[[File:Ukcw_b_350.jpg|link=Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham]]

The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.

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[[CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform|NPPF]]

[[File:CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform_350.jpg|link=CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform]]

CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

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[[Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network|Leaders in Learning for Practice Network]]

[[File:IHBC_logo_350.png|link=Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network]]

Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

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[[The_importance_of_early_engagement|The importance of early engagement]]

[[File:The_importance_of_early_engagement_350.jpg|link=The_importance_of_early_engagement]]

Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.

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[[Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers|Mayors are to be given planning call in powers]]

[[File:10_Downing_Street_350.jpg|link=Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers]]

Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.

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[[The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times|Sixty years in practice]]

[[File:William_butterfield_350.jpg|link=The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times]]

The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

-----
[[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]]

Power for the people

2026-09-06T05:26:45Z

Designing Buildings:

Now that the early nuclear stations, and the conventionally powered oil and coal-fired stations, have reached the end of their lives, how can their heritage be acknowledged?

{|
|width="100%"| [[File:Ratcliffe cooling towers.jpg]]
|-
| Cooling towers at Ratcliffe, Nottinghamshire.
|}

At the end of the second world war, and well into the 1950s, coal remained the principal power source for industry, the railways, heating the home and public buildings, and through town gas works provided energy for cooking, heating and street lighting. Electricity was seen as the energy source of the future; to achieve this vision new generations of power stations would be required. Architecturally, in the decade following nationalisation of the electricity industry in 1948, they remained largely as urban brick cathedrals of power. Bankside, London, now Tate Modern, epitomises this era.

In the late 1950s, after concerns about a reliable coal supply had diminished, an ambitious scheme to build 13 super stations, known as ‘Hinton’s heavies’ after the chairman of the Central Electricity Generating Board, was enacted. Ten were rated at 2000 MW, the coalfired stations each burning millions of tons of coal a year. In parallel, the world’s first civil nuclear power programme was initiated with a plan to have 12 Magnox stations operational by 1965.

Over the past 20 years or so, the early nuclear stations have reached the end of their design lives. So, too, have the conventionally powered oil and coal-fired stations, their demise often being hastened by governmental commitments to decarbonise the economy.

Ratcliffe, Nottinghamshire, was the last coal-fired station to close in September 2024, ending 140 years of coal-powered electricity generation in Great Britain, although Drax, North Yorkshire, will continue in operation for the foreseeable future, burning biomass fuel. The loss of coal and oil-fired power stations which once dominated our towns and countryside illustrates the transience of much modern infrastructure. Future researchers into the architecture, technology or social history of demolished stations will, however, be hard pressed to find any coherent archives. For the post-war stations, records for their period in public ownership may survive in the National Archives, but for the privately owned stations, which include the recently closed mega stations, the picture is very mixed. The content of written archives is also often very biased towards policy and administrative history, with less material surviving on their technical and social history.

Materially, it is unlikely that any of the large post-war power stations will remain after their operational life is over. In London a handful of earlier stations have been converted into luxury apartments, an art gallery and mixed uses. Elsewhere the economics will rarely work to permit such conversions. The post-war mega stations also lack the monumental permanence of the earlier stations. In many cases the structures were little more than weather shelters protecting some of the most sophisticated generation plant of their age.

The most iconic feature of many of these stations were the groups of cooling towers. By the 1960s they represented a well-established technology distinguished by their enormous size, some reaching 114 m high. Cooling towers were, however, only one component of a power station. To blend these huge stations into the local landscape careful consideration was given to the massing of structures, their colours, surface textures and cladding. At West Burton, Nottinghamshire, Derek Lovejoy and Associates, the lead landscape architects, used design models to arrange the towers to avoid ‘blocking’ when viewed from a distance. The architects, Rex Savidge and John Gelsthorpe, further reduced their impact by adding coloured tints to the concrete of a couple of the towers.

The scheme received a Civic Trust Award in 1968. The towers, constructed from reinforced concrete around 18 cm thick, derive strength from their hyperboloid form. Preserving a cooling tower would be both challenging and costly. As with any relatively thin concrete structure, spalling caused by thermal variation and corrosion of reinforcing rods requires constant attention. The individual towers are also single components of a wider composition and technologically are not the most significant part of a station.

If physical preservation is doubtful, how might the legacies of these huge stations be preserved? On closure, any large technological concern may be seen to be subject to taphonomic processes, akin to the processes of decay and dispersal living organisms undergo after death that may eventually leave an imperfect fossil assemblage of their form. For many of the earlier power stations few archives remain, and air photographs taken by the Aerofilms company, now online through the Britain from Above website, are often the most accessible images. The point of closure offers a unique opportunity to influence the quality of archives for future researchers and as a legacy for the hundreds if not thousands of people who worked at each station. One of the challenges that the heritage sector faces is the way in which responsibility for different aspects of a station’s heritage is split between various agencies. Assuming that the heritage interest of a power station has been recognised, there has often been an uncoordinated approach to securing a coherent archival collection.

The heritage of a station’s fabric represented by its buildings, often surrounded by a designed landscape, might generally be regarded as the responsibility of the local authority historic environment team, sometimes with advice from the national heritage agencies. Uniquely, within the heritage sector planning teams may be able to influence the creation of an archive through statutory controls. These may include the commissioning of historic building reports prior to demolition. In structure such reports may conform to formats used for earlier periods. New drawings are rarely required, although some may need reworking to aid clarity. Additional photography is often required to complement historic images or to fill gaps. Electronic 3D imaging also offers many possibilities to explain the operations within the stations, but it requires a clear understanding of why it is being carried out and clarity that suitable repositories exist to hold the data in accessible forms.

Many stations have voluminous archives, comprising many thousands of engineering drawings, operating manuals, personnel records, and sometimes film and photography. Although we cannot second guess what future researchers may find of interest, a highly selective retention policy will be required to reduce this mass to a size a repository might be prepared to accept. Selection has a cost and is often best performed by a knowledgeable member of station staff working to agreed guidelines. After closure the fate of some archives becomes difficult to track, as they pass from operating companies to estate managers, and perhaps to demolition contractors to inform their work. In the absence of a national power generation museum, a local county record office is often the best repository, while in other cases museums or national building archives may take material.

If a complete power station cannot be saved, could components or other artefacts be retained to represent the whole? Many of the objects that might be considered fall into the category of what our colleagues in the museum sector refer to as ‘big stuff’, with all the cost implications for transport, storage and display the term implies. In many instances industries are willing to donate objects, large and small, but local and even national museums lack the resources to curate the material. There are exceptions: the 1930s Battersea control room has been incorporated into a new events space and the Science Museum Group has acquired its 1960s equivalent room from Cottam, Nottinghamshire, for possible future display.

Through job losses the closure of any large industrial concern can have a catastrophic impact on its local community. In addition to what may be regarded as standard heritage responses to loss, arts projects may also offer opportunities to work with local people as their social and physical environment changes.

For the fleets of redundant nuclear stations, the decommissioned hulks of their reclad and reduced reactor buildings are likely to remain for many decades while their residual reactivity decays to permit more economic dismantling. At these and many of the post-war stations, although the principal station buildings may be lost, their surrounding designed landscapes of artificial screening landforms, hedges and plantations, analogous to the gardens of an abandoned country estate, will remain.

The recent loss of most of the large post-war electricity generation stations has provided an opportunity to promote the development of more comprehensive heritage strategies informed by advice in a Historic England guidance note.[1] This has included collaborations with site owners, local planning authorities, the Science Museum Group, and local and national archives. Examples of some historic building reports have been lodged with the Archaeological Data Service.

The recently published heritage strategy by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority provides a good example of an industry-wide initiative to acknowledge its heritage through tangible and intangible assets, objects and memories,[2] while also acknowledging the benefits that heritage projects can bring to local communities and stakeholders. It is a vision that could be adopted by other industries or tailored to address the closure of a single enterprise leading to more holistic legacies for our recent industrial past.

References:

[1] Historic England (2016) England’s Redundant Post-War Coal- and Oil-Fired Power Stations, Guidelines for Recording and Archiving Their Records

[2] Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (2024) NDA Group Heritage Vision and Strategy

-----
This article originally appeared in the Institute of Historic Building Conservation’s (IHBC’s) [https://ihbconline.co.uk/cont_arch/?p=1596 Context 186], published in December 2025. It was written by Wayne Cocroft, who has recently retired as a senior archaeological investigator with Historic England. All photos by the author.

--[[User:Institute_of_Historic_Building_Conservation|Institute of Historic Building Conservation]]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Conservation. =

* Britain's industrial heritage.
* Conservation.
* Cranes.
* Heritage.
* Heritage, industry and slavery.
* Historic England and infrastructure.
* Historic environment.
* IHBC articles.
* IHBC.
* Journeys in Industrious England.
* Scotland’s uplifting heritage.

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:History]] [[Category:Conservation]]

File:Ratcliffe cooling towers.jpg

2026-09-06T05:26:13Z

Designing Buildings: Cooling towers at Ratcliffe, Nottinghamshire. Source: “Power for the people” in the Institute of Historic Building Conservation’s (IHBC’s) Context 186, published in December 2025, written by written by Wayne Cocroft, who has recently retired as a

Cooling towers at Ratcliffe, Nottinghamshire. Source: Power for the people in the Institute of Historic Building Conservations (IHBCs) Context 186, published in December 2025, written by written by Wayne Cocroft, who has recently retired as a senior archaeological investigator with Historic England. Photo by the author. https://ihbconline.co.uk/cont_arch/?p=1596 Not for re-use.

File:Ratcliffe cooling towers 350.jpg

2026-09-06T05:25:51Z

Power for the people

2026-09-06T05:21:41Z

Designing Buildings: Created page with "Now that the early nuclear stations, and the conventionally powered oil and coal-fired stations, have reached the end of their lives, how can their heritage be acknowledged? At ..."

Now that the early nuclear stations, and the conventionally powered oil and coal-fired stations, have reached the end of their lives, how can their heritage be acknowledged?

At the end of the second world war, and well into the 1950s, coal remained the principal power source for industry, the railways, heating the home and public buildings, and through town gas works provided energy for cooking, heating and street lighting. Electricity was seen as the energy source of the future; to achieve this vision new generations of power stations would be required. Architecturally, in the decade following nationalisation of the electricity industry in 1948, they remained largely as urban brick cathedrals of power. Bankside, London, now Tate Modern, epitomises this era.

In the late 1950s, after concerns about a reliable coal supply had diminished, an ambitious scheme to build 13 super stations, known as ‘Hinton’s heavies’ after the chairman of the Central Electricity Generating Board, was enacted. Ten were rated at 2000 MW, the coalfired stations each burning millions of tons of coal a year. In parallel, the world’s first civil nuclear power programme was initiated with a plan to have 12 Magnox stations operational by 1965.

Over the past 20 years or so, the early nuclear stations have reached the end of their design lives. So, too, have the conventionally powered oil and coal-fired stations, their demise often being hastened by governmental commitments to decarbonise the economy.

Ratcliffe, Nottinghamshire, was the last coal-fired station to close in September 2024, ending 140 years of coal-powered electricity generation in Great Britain, although Drax, North Yorkshire, will continue in operation for the foreseeable future, burning biomass fuel. The loss of coal and oil-fired power stations which once dominated our towns and countryside illustrates the transience of much modern infrastructure. Future researchers into the architecture, technology or social history of demolished stations will, however, be hard pressed to find any coherent archives. For the post-war stations, records for their period in public ownership may survive in the National Archives, but for the privately owned stations, which include the recently closed mega stations, the picture is very mixed. The content of written archives is also often very biased towards policy and administrative history, with less material surviving on their technical and social history.

Materially, it is unlikely that any of the large post-war power stations will remain after their operational life is over. In London a handful of earlier stations have been converted into luxury apartments, an art gallery and mixed uses. Elsewhere the economics will rarely work to permit such conversions. The post-war mega stations also lack the monumental permanence of the earlier stations. In many cases the structures were little more than weather shelters protecting some of the most sophisticated generation plant of their age.

The most iconic feature of many of these stations were the groups of cooling towers. By the 1960s they represented a well-established technology distinguished by their enormous size, some reaching 114 m high. Cooling towers were, however, only one component of a power station. To blend these huge stations into the local landscape careful consideration was given to the massing of structures, their colours, surface textures and cladding. At West Burton, Nottinghamshire, Derek Lovejoy and Associates, the lead landscape architects, used design models to arrange the towers to avoid ‘blocking’ when viewed from a distance. The architects, Rex Savidge and John Gelsthorpe, further reduced their impact by adding coloured tints to the concrete of a couple of the towers.

The scheme received a Civic Trust Award in 1968. The towers, constructed from reinforced concrete around 18 cm thick, derive strength from their hyperboloid form. Preserving a cooling tower would be both challenging and costly. As with any relatively thin concrete structure, spalling caused by thermal variation and corrosion of reinforcing rods requires constant attention. The individual towers are also single components of a wider composition and technologically are not the most significant part of a station.

If physical preservation is doubtful, how might the legacies of these huge stations be preserved? On closure, any large technological concern may be seen to be subject to taphonomic processes, akin to the processes of decay and dispersal living organisms undergo after death that may eventually leave an imperfect fossil assemblage of their form. For many of the earlier power stations few archives remain, and air photographs taken by the Aerofilms company, now online through the Britain from Above website, are often the most accessible images. The point of closure offers a unique opportunity to influence the quality of archives for future researchers and as a legacy for the hundreds if not thousands of people who worked at each station. One of the challenges that the heritage sector faces is the way in which responsibility for different aspects of a station’s heritage is split between various agencies. Assuming that the heritage interest of a power station has been recognised, there has often been an uncoordinated approach to securing a coherent archival collection.

The heritage of a station’s fabric represented by its buildings, often surrounded by a designed landscape, might generally be regarded as the responsibility of the local authority historic environment team, sometimes with advice from the national heritage agencies. Uniquely, within the heritage sector planning teams may be able to influence the creation of an archive through statutory controls. These may include the commissioning of historic building reports prior to demolition. In structure such reports may conform to formats used for earlier periods. New drawings are rarely required, although some may need reworking to aid clarity. Additional photography is often required to complement historic images or to fill gaps. Electronic 3D imaging also offers many possibilities to explain the operations within the stations, but it requires a clear understanding of why it is being carried out and clarity that suitable repositories exist to hold the data in accessible forms.

Many stations have voluminous archives, comprising many thousands of engineering drawings, operating manuals, personnel records, and sometimes film and photography. Although we cannot second guess what future researchers may find of interest, a highly selective retention policy will be required to reduce this mass to a size a repository might be prepared to accept. Selection has a cost and is often best performed by a knowledgeable member of station staff working to agreed guidelines. After closure the fate of some archives becomes difficult to track, as they pass from operating companies to estate managers, and perhaps to demolition contractors to inform their work. In the absence of a national power generation museum, a local county record office is often the best repository, while in other cases museums or national building archives may take material.

If a complete power station cannot be saved, could components or other artefacts be retained to represent the whole? Many of the objects that might be considered fall into the category of what our colleagues in the museum sector refer to as ‘big stuff’, with all the cost implications for transport, storage and display the term implies. In many instances industries are willing to donate objects, large and small, but local and even national museums lack the resources to curate the material. There are exceptions: the 1930s Battersea control room has been incorporated into a new events space and the Science Museum Group has acquired its 1960s equivalent room from Cottam, Nottinghamshire, for possible future display.

Through job losses the closure of any large industrial concern can have a catastrophic impact on its local community. In addition to what may be regarded as standard heritage responses to loss, arts projects may also offer opportunities to work with local people as their social and physical environment changes.

For the fleets of redundant nuclear stations, the decommissioned hulks of their reclad and reduced reactor buildings are likely to remain for many decades while their residual reactivity decays to permit more economic dismantling. At these and many of the post-war stations, although the principal station buildings may be lost, their surrounding designed landscapes of artificial screening landforms, hedges and plantations, analogous to the gardens of an abandoned country estate, will remain.

The recent loss of most of the large post-war electricity generation stations has provided an opportunity to promote the development of more comprehensive heritage strategies informed by advice in a Historic England guidance note.[1] This has included collaborations with site owners, local planning authorities, the Science Museum Group, and local and national archives. Examples of some historic building reports have been lodged with the Archaeological Data Service.

The recently published heritage strategy by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority provides a good example of an industry-wide initiative to acknowledge its heritage through tangible and intangible assets, objects and memories,[2] while also acknowledging the benefits that heritage projects can bring to local communities and stakeholders. It is a vision that could be adopted by other industries or tailored to address the closure of a single enterprise leading to more holistic legacies for our recent industrial past.

References:

[1] Historic England (2016) England’s Redundant Post-War Coal- and Oil-Fired Power Stations, Guidelines for Recording and Archiving Their Records

[2] Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (2024) NDA Group Heritage Vision and Strategy

-----
This article originally appeared in the Institute of Historic Building Conservation’s (IHBC’s) [https://ihbconline.co.uk/cont_arch/?p=1596 Context 186], published in December 2025. It was written by Wayne Cocroft, who has recently retired as a senior archaeological investigator with Historic England. All photos by the author.

--[[User:Institute_of_Historic_Building_Conservation|Institute of Historic Building Conservation]]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Conservation. =

* Britain's industrial heritage.
* Conservation.
* Cranes.
* Heritage.
* Heritage, industry and slavery.
* Historic England and infrastructure.
* Historic environment.
* IHBC articles.
* IHBC.
* Journeys in Industrious England.
* Scotland’s uplifting heritage.

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:History]] [[Category:Conservation]]

Concrete

2026-09-04T05:26:55Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Concrete pouring and worker iStock 000045247790 Medium.jpg]]

= Introduction =

Concrete is the most commonly used man-made material on earth. It is an important construction material used extensively in buildings, bridges, roads and dams. Its uses range from structural applications, to paviours, kerbs, pipes and drains.

Concrete is a composite material, consisting mainly of Portland cement, water and aggregate (gravel, sand or rock). When these materials are mixed together, they form a workable paste which then gradually hardens over time.

For the different types, see Types of concrete.

= History =

A material similar to concrete was first developed by the Egyptians, consisting of lime and gypsum. Typically, lime, chalk or oyster shells continued being used as the cement forming agent until the early-1800s.

In 1824, Portland cement, a mixture of limestone and clay was burned and ground, and since then, this has remained the predominant cementing agent used in concrete production.

= Benefits of concrete =

There are numerous positive aspects of concrete:

* It is a relatively cheap material and has a relatively long life with few maintenance requirements.
* It is strong in compression.
* Before it hardens it is a very pliable substance that can easily be shaped.
* It is non-combustible.

= Limitations of concrete =

The limitations of concrete include:

* Relatively low tensile strength when compared to other building materials.
* Low ductability.
* Low strength-to-weight ratio.
* It is susceptible to cracking.

= Characteristics of concrete =

The characteristics of concrete are determined by the aggregate or cement used, or by the method that is used to produce it. The water-to-cement ratio is the determining factor in ordinary structural concrete with a lower water content resulting in a stronger concrete.

This, however, reduces the workability (and pumpability) of the concrete, which can be measured using the slump test. The grading, shape, texture and proportion of aggregate can also have a similar effect. If a particularly strong concrete is required, the amount of aggregate can be reduced in relation to the cement. However, cement is a significant cost factor, and increasing its proportion in the mix will increase the overall price.

When making concrete, admixtures can be used to alter the characteristics of the concrete. For example accelerators can be used to make it set more rapidly, retarders to make it set more slowly, superplasticisers to reduce the water content etc.

For more information, see The properties of concrete.

= Concrete strength =

Concrete strength is determined by the force required to crush it and is measured in pounds per square inch or kilograms per square centimetre. Strength can be affected by many variables including moisture and temperature.

The tensile strength of concrete can be improved with the addition of metal rods, wires, cables or mesh. Where very high tensile stresses are expected (such as in wide unsupported spans in roofs or bridges) concrete can include pre-tensioned steel wires. This creates compressive forces in the concrete that help offset the tensile forces that the structure is subject to.

Sacrificial probes can be integrated within concrete to provide strength determination and this is likely to help improve construction methodologies.

For more information, see Testing concrete.

= Formwork =

Formwork is a temporary mould into which concrete is poured and formed. Traditional formwork is fabricated using timber, but it can also be constructed from steel, glass fibre reinforced plastics and other materials.

Formwork may be temporary, re-usable, or stay-in-place. There are also a number of proprietary systems such as those used to support vertical formwork while concrete cures, consisting of a series of tubes and ties.

Efficiency within concrete construction is being improved by the adoption of hybrid solutions and innovations in formwork such as self-climbing forms.

See Formwork for more information.

= Sustainability =

Concrete has a relatively high embodied energy, resulting from its extraction, manufacture and transportation. Waste materials can be included within the concrete mix such as Recycled Crushed Aggregate (RCA), Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag (GGBS) and Pulverised Fuel Ash (PFA).

In addition, moves are being made to assess the potential of using recycled concrete, however, issues such as moisture content and material variability may make this unviable.

Concrete is a very durable, low maintenance material and can provide thermal mass, helping reduce the energy consumption of buildings in operation.

The UK cement and concrete industry has published a Roadmap to Beyond Net Zero, setting out a pathway to net-zero carbon concrete across its lifecycle by 2050, including through lower-carbon cement chemistries such as limestone calcined clay cement (LC3), increased use of GGBS and PFA in place of Portland cement, and carbon capture at cement works.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* 3D concrete printer.
* Admixture, additive or agent.
* Admixtures in concrete.
* Alkali-activated binder.
* Alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR).
* Alkali-silica reaction (ASR).
* Architectural concrete.
* Blocked concrete delivery pumps.
* Cast-in-place concrete.
* Cellular concrete.
* Cement and concrete companies release 2050 Climate Ambition.
* Cement-free precast product.
* Cement mortar.
* Concrete batching plants.
* Concrete boom pumps.
* Concrete in aggressive ground (SD 1).
* Concrete joints.
* Concrete masonry unit CMU.
* Concrete repair mortars.
* Concrete-steel composite structures.
* Concrete superplasticizer.
* Concrete to cover.
* Concrete vs. steel.
* Concreting plant.
* Decarbonising concrete in the UK.
* Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme.
* Differences between jumpform and slipform climbing formwork systems.
* Glass reinforced concrete.
* Hempcrete.
* How to clean concrete.
* Laitance.
* Lime concrete.
* Limestone calcined clay cement LC3.
* Portland cement.
* Precast concrete.
* Prestressed concrete.
* Power float.
* Pyrite and mica redress issues in Dail Eireann.
* Rebar.
* Recycled concrete aggregate RCA.
* Reinforced concrete.
* Scabbling.
* Screed.
* Self-compacting concrete.
* Slip form.
* Smart concrete.
* Spanish brutalism.
* Sprayed in situ concrete.
* Stationary pump skills.
* Stratification of concrete.
* Testing concrete.
* Textile-reinforced mortars TRM.
* The properties of concrete.
* The World Recast: 70 buildings from 70 years of Concrete Quarterly.
* The use of concrete structures to protect construction sites.
* Thomas Edison's concrete cottages.
* Types of concrete.
* Ultra high performance fibre concrete.
* Vibration Compaction Technology.
* What will happen if we use too much rebar in concrete?

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Vesting certificate for construction goods plant or materials

2026-09-04T05:25:51Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Offsiteconstruction.jpg]]

= When might vesting certificates be required? =

When specific goods, plant or materials are in high demand, or lead-times are long, it may be necessary to make advance payments to secure an order and prevent delays to the programme, even where the goods, plant or materials remain off-site and so not in the possession of the client. Such items should be agreed with the contractor (or sub-contractor or supplier) in advance of executing the contract and listed in an annex to the contract bills.

Paying to secure such items can be useful, however, it does put the client at risk, for example if the contractor becomes insolvent and the items are then not delivered, even though payment has been made.

Under such circumstances, a 'vesting certificate' or 'certificate of vesting' may be required from the contractor (or sub-contractors or suppliers), certifying that ownership of the goods, plant or materials listed in a schedule will transfer from one party to the other upon payment (e.g. from the supplier to the client) and confirming that the goods, plant or materials will be properly identified, separately stored and insured and that they are free from encumbrances such as retention of title.

Vesting certificates can be used as evidence that ownership vests in the client upon payment, defeating third party claims such as claims of retention of title, and can help to identify items, if for example, the contractor becomes insolvent before the items have been delivered to site.

= What are the problems with vesting certificates? =

The need for and effectiveness of vesting certificates has been questioned for a number of reasons.

Contracts such as the JCT standard building contract and NEC contracts already include provisions requiring that the contractor provides reasonable proof that off-site property is vested in the client, materials are set apart or clearly marked and that they are insured.

Whilst a vesting certificate may be appropriate for use with contracts that do not include such provisions, the status of such certificates relative to other provisions of the main contract may not be clear (ref. Olswang, Contractor Vesting Certificates - what legal protection do they provide?, 2009).

In addition, it is difficult to sue an insolvent contractor, and despite best endeavours, items may simply be removed or disappear in the event of insolvency, or even if there is a rumour that insolvency might occur. This is particularly true for items that have yet to be fabricated, items that have still to be worked on, or items that are abroad.

== What are the alternatives to vesting certificates? ==

An advance payment bond (an on-demand bond) might offer better protection than a vesting certificate under some circumstances, with the value of the bond matching the value of the off-site items, its value reducing as deliveries to site are made.

Other precautions might include:

* Checking the financial status of the contractor to assess the likelihood of insolvency before orders are placed.
* If the contractor is part of a larger group, then a parent company guarantee could be required from the holding company.
* Entering into a direct contract with the supplier.

In a perfect world, items would be delivered to site and affixed to the property before payment is made, but where this is not possible, a judgement is necessary to assess the risk to the project, against the potential loss to the client if items are not paid for in advance.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Advance payment bond.
* Certificates in the construction industry.
* Lead time.
* Materials on site.
* Off-site goods and materials.
* Owner.
* Parent company guarantee.
* Retention of title.
* Site storage.

= External references =

Olswang, Contractor Vesting Certificates - what legal protection do they provide?, 2009. (Olswang merged into CMS in 2017 and the firm's original website, on which this article was published, is no longer live.)

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Contracts_/_payment]] [[Category:Procurement]]

Unveiling the Power of Digital Twin Process

2026-09-04T05:24:35Z

Designing Buildings:

== Introduciton ==

In the current fast-paced technological era, the idea of digital twins has become revolutionary in several different industries. Digital twins provide a virtual representation of physical assets, processes, or systems, enabling real-time monitoring, analysis, and optimisation in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, construction, and urban planning. In this blog, we'll delve into the intricacies of the digital twin process, exploring its applications, benefits, and transformative potential across diverse sectors.

== Understanding the Digital Twin Process ==

The digital twin process is fundamentally about creating a digital replica or twin of a physical asset, system, or process. This virtual representation was created using data from sensors, IoT devices, historical records, and advanced modelling and simulation techniques. By capturing real-world data and integrating it into a virtual model, organisations can gain valuable insights into the performance, behaviour, and condition of their assets in real time.

== Applications Across Industries ==

The applications of the digital twin process are vast and varied, spanning multiple industries and sectors. In manufacturing, digital twins enable predictive maintenance, process optimisation, and product design simulation, leading to improved efficiency and reduced downtime. In healthcare, digital twins facilitate personalised treatment plans, medical device optimisation, and patient monitoring, enhancing outcomes and patient care. Similarly, in construction and urban planning, digital twins support project visualisation, urban design simulation, and infrastructure management, driving smarter and more sustainable development.

== Benefits of Digital Twins ==

The benefits of adopting the digital twin process are manifold. By providing a virtual mirror of physical assets and processes, digital twins enable organisations to identify and address issues proactively, optimise performance, and minimise risks. They also empower data-driven decision-making, facilitate collaboration across teams and disciplines, and drive innovation and continuous improvement. Additionally, digital twins offer opportunities for predictive analytics, scenario testing, and simulation-based forecasting, enabling organisations to anticipate future trends and challenges with greater accuracy and confidence.

== Transformative Potential ==

The transformative potential of the digital twin process is vast and promising. As organisations continue to embrace digitalisation and harness the power of data, digital twins will play an increasingly central role in driving efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness across industries. By creating digital replicas of physical assets and processes, organisations can unlock new insights, optimise operations, and accelerate their journey toward digital transformation.

== Conclusion ==

In conclusion, the digital twin process represents a paradigm shift in how organisations conceptualise, design, and manage physical assets and processes. By leveraging the power of digital twins, organisations can gain a deeper understanding of their operations, drive continuous improvement, and unlock new opportunities for innovation and growth. As the digital twin ecosystem continues to evolve and expand, it promises to revolutionise industries and reshape the way we interact with the physical world.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Artificial intelligence and civil engineering.
* Big data.
* BIM.
* Blockchain.
* Connected digital twins.
* Defining the digital twin: seven essential steps.
* Digital Roads 2025.
* digital twin.
* Engineering Smart Cities.
* Internet of things.
* Interoperability.
* Making the most of big data.
* Open data.
* Smart technology.
* Twin cities.
* What a digital twin could be.
* UsBIM.geotwin

[[Category:BIM]]

Defects liability period DLP

2026-09-04T05:19:35Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Cracking.jpg]]

= What is the defects liability period? =

The defects liability period (now called the 'rectification period' in Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) contracts, including the 2024 edition) is a period specified in construction contracts that begins on certification of practical completion and typically lasts six to twelve months. During this period, the client reports any defects that arise to the contract administrator who decides whether they are defects (i.e. works that are not in accordance with the contract), or whether they are maintenance issues. If the contract administrator considers they are defects, then they may issue instructions to the contractor to make them good within a reasonable time. Note, it is actually the contractor's responsibility to identify and rectify defects, not the client's, so if the client does bring defects to the contractor's notice, they should make clear that this is not a comprehensive list of all defects.

Practical completion is the point at which construction work is certified as practically complete under the building contract. As well as signifying the beginning of the defects liability period, this has the effect of:

* Releasing half of the retention (an amount retained from payments due to the contractor to ensure they complete the works).
* Ending the contractor's liability for liquidated damages.
* Allowing the client to occupy the site.

For more information see: Practical completion.

= What happens at the end of the defects liability period? =

At the end of the defects liability period, the contract administrator prepares a schedule of defects, listing those defects that have not yet been rectified, and agrees with the contractor the date by which they will be rectified. The contractor must in any event rectify them within a reasonable time.

When the contract administrator considers all the items on the schedule of defects have been rectified, they issue a certificate of making good defects. This has the effect of releasing the remainder of any retention and results in the final certificate being issued.

= What happens if the contractor fails to make good defects? =

If the contractor, having been given an opportunity to rectify defects, fails to do so within a reasonable time, they may be in breach of contract. In this situation others may be employed to rectify the defects, and the cost of such works deducted from the contractor's retention.

For more information see: Certificate of making good defects.

= What happens after the defects liability period? =

After the defects liability period, the building owner does not have a contractual right to insist that the contractor rectifies defects not notified during that period. The building owner must instead seek redress in an action for damages, for breach of contract, or for negligence. In the case of dwellings there is a statutory remedy provided by the Defective Premises Act 1972. These rights of action are not perpetual; actions for breach of contract are time barred after six years from the date of the breach (usually the completion of the building although with a failure of design the breach may have occurred earlier), or for a contract under seal, the period is 12 years.

The Building Safety Act 2022 significantly extended the limitation periods for claims under the Defective Premises Act 1972, and broadened its scope to cover defective work on existing dwellings as well as newly built ones. For work completed after 28 June 2022, claims may now be brought within 15 years; for work completed before that date, the limitation period is extended retrospectively to 30 years. This means that some claims previously considered time-barred under the old six-year limit may now be revived.

For more information see: Latent defects.

= What defects should be rectified during the defects liability period? =

It is important to note that the defects liability period is not a chance to correct problems apparent at practical completion, it is a period during which the contractor may be recalled to rectify defects which appear after practical completion. If there are defects apparent before practical completion, then these should be rectified before a certificate of practical completion is issued.

This can, however, put the contract administrator in a difficult position, as both the contractor and the client may be keen to certify practical completion (so that the building can be handed over) and yet defects (more than a de minimis) may still be apparent in the works. Issuing the certificate could render the contract administrator liable for problems that this causes for example in the calculation of liquidated damages.

In practice therefore, it is not unusual, particularly if it is in the client's interests, for a certificate of practical completion to be issued with an attached list of minor omissions and defects to be rectified in the defects period. An example of this would be if the certificate of practical completion might trigger tenants' fit out and subsequent payment of rent, when it is in nobody's interest to delay the programme just for delivery of a piece of door furniture or a replacement light fitting.

If the contract administrator is pressured to certify practical completion even though the works are not complete, they might consider informing the client in writing of the potential problems of doing so, obtaining written consent from the client to certify practical completion and obtaining agreement from the contractor that they will complete the works and rectify any defects. If the contract administrator is not confident about the potential problems this may cause, they may advise the client to seek legal advice.

For a more detailed analysis of what constitutes practical completion and when it can be certified, see: Practical completion.

On construction management contracts, a separate certificate of practical completion must be issued for each trade contract. This means there may be a number of defects liability periods. The same is true on management contracts, where each works contract must be certified individually.

= What is substantial completion? =

Some forms of contract (for example in the USA) allow for an alternative position of 'substantial completion'. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) defines this as: '[The] state in the progress of Work when the Work or designated portion thereof is sufficiently complete in accordance with the Contract Documents so the Owner can occupy or utilize the Work for its intended use.'

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Certificate of making good defects.
* Completion date.
* Contract administrator.
* Defects.
* Defects correction period (NEC).
* Defects list.
* Extended aftercare.
* Handover to client.
* Initial aftercare.
* Latent defects.
* Liquidated damages.
* Practical completion.
* Remedial work.
* Retention.
* Schedule of defects.
* Soft landings.
* Substantial completion.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Procurement]]

Building design and construction fees

2026-09-04T05:18:32Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Calculator_blk.jpg]]

The calculation of fees is a complicated and controversial subject.

= What are fees? =

The term 'fees' generally refers to payments made by the client to consultants for services under the terms of an agreement. They are generally paid in instalments based on regular dates or at pre-defined stages of completed work.

= What fees are paid on construction projects? =

The core consultant team for most building projects will include:

* Architect (see Architect's fees).
* Structural engineer.
* Services engineer.

Larger projects may need additional consultants for management and cost control, including:

* Project manager.
* Cost consultant (see 'quantity surveyor's fees').
* A contractor on management fee contracts.

In addition, specialists may be required depending on the nature of the project, such as legal adviser, landscape designer, interior designer, environmental consultant, access consultant, planning consultant and fire engineer. Other fees will also be payable on most projects, including planning fees and building regulations fees.

= What are fees based on? =

The size of fees is entirely dependent on the nature of the project and the circumstances of the appointment. Large new-build projects may attract lower percentage fees than small works to existing buildings, commercial work may attract lower percentage fees than private residential work, and works to historic or listed buildings may attract higher fees.

Fees charged by consultants may vary according to:

* Size of project.
* Type and complexity of project.
* Scope of services. For example, full design and site inspection will attract a higher fee than a concept design that is then developed by a contractor.
* The number of repeat or bespoke elements of the design.
* Location of site and other consultant practices.
* Reputation of the practice. For example, a signature architect might charge more than one that is newly qualified.
* Client organisation and track record. This will affect how much support is required and the risk perceived by consultants.
* Conditions of engagement. For example, the requirement for collateral warranties and partnering arrangements.
* Anticipated programme and resources. The outputs in a short or long programme are the same, however, a longer programme prolongs the administrative resources required such as attending meetings and responding to requests for information. So percentage fees for a longer period will tend to be higher.
* Economic climate. Fees may be lower during recessions and higher during booms.
* Consultant workload. Busy consultants are likely to charge higher fees.
* Assessment of the competencies of other consultants. This may affect the amount of support that is required.

It is very important that the scope of services required are agreed in advance so there is no ambiguity about what is being paid for and what will be charged as extras. For more information see: Scope of services.

= Why are there no standard fee scales? =

Professional institutes used to publish recommended fee scales expressed as a percentage of construction costs for a range of different building types. However, legislation aimed at preventing anti-competitive behaviour forced the institutes to abolish these scales, leaving fee negotiation to market forces.

Consequently, bidding for consultancy work has become a free-for-all in a highly competitive market. Some commentators argue that this has driven down fees, however, it has also been suggested that it has driven down standards and led to much design work being transferred from consultants to specialist contractors and suppliers who include design costs in their building agreements. The design co-ordination issues this has caused has had far reaching consequences and supplied the legal profession with a constant flow of disputes about who is responsible for disruption and delays.

= How are fees calculated? =

Despite the demise of fee scales, developers are still inclined to use percentages of building costs for early calculation of the likely fees associated with construction. However, they will then generally negotiate fixed price lump-sums, with each consultant wrapping up any early work in the conceptual stages when fees might have been paid for on agreed hourly rates as the construction cost may not have been known at that point.

Regular, interim payment of fees are then made at pre-defined stages, or on a timed basis, for example, monthly payments against a payment schedule based on anticipated resources.

The table below is a very approximate guide based on commercial office developments in the London area, where the fees of the core team of consultants are expressed as percentages against construction costs (excluding contingency allowances and VAT). Clearly, fees on actual projects will vary considerably depending on the nature of the building required, the site, state of the economy and other factors as discussed above.

== Core consultant fees ==

{|
|width="14%"| Construction cost (excl contingencies and VAT)
|width="14%"| Under £1.5m
|width="14%"| £1.5m - £3m
|width="14%"| £3m - £10m
|width="14%"| £10m - £25m
|width="14%"| £25m - £50m
|width="14%"| £50m+
|-
| Architect
| 9%
| 8%
| 7%
| 6%
| 5%
| 4%
|-
| Cost consultant
| 2%
| 2%
| 1.5%
| 1.5%
| 1%
| 1%
|-
| Services engineer
| 2%
| 2%
| 1.5%
| 1.5%
| 1%
| 1%
|-
| Structural engineer
| 2%
| 2%
| 1.8%
| 1.5%
| 1%
| 1%
|-
| Project manager
| n/a
| n/a
| 2%
| 1.5%
| 1.25%
| 1%
|}

== Other fees on an £80m office ==

It is likely that other, more variable fees will also be incurred. These are much more difficult to predict without a detailed understanding of the nature of the project. However, to give a sense of the type of fee that might be payable, indicative figures are presented below based on actual records of costs incurred on an £80m office block development in the City of London.

=== Acquisition fees ===

{|
|width="50%"| Legal (for developer)
|width="50%"| £600,000
|-
| Agent (for developer)
| £45,000
|-
| Legal (for vendor)
| £120,000
|-
| Agent (for vendor)
| £10,000
|-
| TOTAL
| £775,000
|}

=== Specialist fees ===

{|
|width="50%"| Survey
|width="50%"| £30,000
|-
| Party wall
| £228,000
|-
| Acoustics
| £62,400
|-
| Site inspector
| £358,000
|-
| Soil investigation
| £67,000
|-
| Landscape design
| £30,000
|-
| Traffic engineer
| £28,000
|-
| Programmer
| £35,000
|-
| Interior designer
| £200,000
|-
| Right of light
| £100,000
|-
| Archaeology
| £40,000
|-
| Building regulations
| £100,000
|-
| CDM co-ordinator
| £50,000
|-
| Planning fees
| £40,000
|-
| TOTAL
| £1,368,400
|}

=== Letting fees ===

{|
|width="50%"| Agents
|width="50%"| £2,800,000
|-
| Promotion costs
| £3,000,000
|-
| Legal (for developer)
| £400,000
|-
| TOTAL
| £6,200,000
|}

= What is quantum meruit (time charging)? =

Occasionally, the scope cannot be determined or a project involves significant uncertainty. Consultants may then be employed on pre-agreed hourly rates for different categories of staff. Generally, the hourly rate will reflect 2.5 x payroll cost based on a 1,500 working hour year.

= How does competitive tendering affect value? =

Attempting to save money by driving fees down can be a mistake. Fees represent a small part of the whole-life costs of a project, but poor design can have a long lasting and expensive impact.

The relative cost of a typical project is sometimes illustrated using the ratios shown below:

0.1 to 0.15 for design costs (ref. OGC [http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20100503135839/http:/www.ogc.gov.uk/documents/CP0067AEGuide7.pdf Achieving Excellence Guide 7 - Whole-Life costing]).

* 1 for construction costs.
* 5 for maintenance and building operating costs during the lifetime of the building.
* 200 for the cost of operating the business during the lifetime of the building.

(Ref. Report of the Royal Academy of Engineering on The long term costs of owning and using buildings (1998).)

However, this has been criticised as misleading, not least because the construction industry accounts for around 7% of GDP, implying a much more significant proportion of business costs than the ratio suggests. Other ratios of construction costs to operational costs to business costs have suggested figures as low as 1:0.6:6 for some types of buildings. However, the usefulness of these ratios is questionable, other than if they are calculated based on actual figures for specific businesses.

= NRM1 =

NRM1: NRM 1 provides guidance on the quantification of building works for the purpose of preparing cost estimates and cost plans. Order of cost estimating and cost planning for capital building work defines the project/design team fee(s) as '...project team and design team consultants' fees for pre-construction, construction and post-construction related services, other consultants' fees, fees and charges for intrusive site investigations, specialist support consultants' fees and main contractor's fees for the provision of pre-construction services.'

See Group element 11: Project/design team fees for an indicative list of project/design team fees.

It suggests that project/design team fees estimate means '...the total estimated cost of all project/design team fees at the estimate base date (i.e. excluding tender inflation and construction inflation).'

The NRM suite (including NRM1) was reissued by RICS as practice information in October 2022, incorporating a 2021 update; RICS has confirmed that earlier editions are now out of date.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Appointing consultants.
* Architects fees.
* Base date.
* Charge-out rate.
* Compensation.
* Construction organisations and strategy.
* Consultant team.
* Contractual obligation.
* Design team.
* Disbursement.
* Hourly rate.
* Invoice.
* Letter of appointment.
* Planning fees.
* Quantity surveyor's fees.
* Rates.
* Schedule of services.
* Search fees.
* Sub-consultant.
* Winning work.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Project_Knowledge]] [[Category:Appointments]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Procurement]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Surge protective device

2026-09-04T05:16:51Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

A surge protective device (SPD) is a device intended to limit transient overvoltages and divert associated surge currents in an electrical installation. SPDs are used to reduce the risk of damage to electrical and electronic equipment caused by transient disturbances such as those associated with lightning, electrical switching and faults in power systems.

Transient overvoltages can affect power supplies, control systems, information technology equipment, communications systems and other electronic equipment. An SPD provides a controlled path for surge current so that the voltage appearing across protected equipment is limited to a level appropriate for the installation and equipment.

SPDs form part of an overall electrical protection strategy. Their effectiveness depends on appropriate selection, installation, coordination with other protective devices and, where relevant, the provision of lightning protection and equipotential bonding.

= How surge protective devices work =

Under normal operating conditions, an SPD presents a high impedance and has little effect on the electrical circuit. When a transient overvoltage occurs, the SPD changes its electrical characteristics and provides a low-impedance path for the associated surge current. This limits the voltage that can appear across the protected circuit. Once the transient has passed, the device returns to its normal high-impedance state.

Common technologies used in SPDs include metal oxide varistors (MOVs), gas discharge tubes (GDTs) and semiconductor devices such as transient voltage suppressor diodes. Different technologies have different electrical characteristics and may be combined within a single SPD.

An SPD does not normally absorb all of the energy of a surge. Instead, it diverts surge current and limits the resulting voltage. The connection between the SPD and the electrical installation is therefore important, particularly because the inductance of connecting conductors can produce additional voltage during a rapidly changing surge current.

== Types of surge protective device ==

SPDs can be classified according to their intended location and application. Devices may be installed at the origin of an electrical installation, within distribution boards or close to sensitive equipment. Different types are used for different levels and characteristics of surge exposure.

SPDs are also classified according to the type of system and the nature of the surges they are intended to handle. In installations incorporating a lightning protection system, the SPD arrangement may need to provide protection against partial lightning currents as well as switching transients.

Surge protection can also be provided on circuits other than mains power supplies. SPDs are available for telecommunications, data, signalling, control and other electrical circuits where transient overvoltages could cause damage or disruption.

== Selection and installation ==

The selection of an SPD should take account of the characteristics of the electrical installation, the expected sources of transient overvoltage and the equipment requiring protection. Important parameters include the system voltage, frequency, earthing arrangement, maximum continuous operating voltage, nominal discharge current, impulse current capability where applicable, voltage protection level and short-circuit withstand characteristics.

The location of the SPD is also significant. Installing protection at the origin of an installation can reduce the propagation of incoming transients, while additional SPDs may be required closer to sensitive equipment. Where several SPDs are installed, they should be appropriately coordinated so that their operating characteristics are compatible.

The wiring arrangement and conductor lengths between an SPD and the equipment being protected should be considered during installation. Excessive conductor length can increase the residual voltage presented to the equipment during a surge.

SPDs should be installed in accordance with the requirements of the applicable electrical installation standard and the manufacturer's installation instructions. Their installation should not compromise other protective measures within the electrical system.

= Applications and limitations =

SPDs are used in residential, commercial, industrial and infrastructure installations. Applications can include protection of computers and electronic equipment, building management systems, fire and security systems, telecommunications equipment, industrial control systems and other equipment that may be susceptible to transient overvoltages.

Protection may be particularly important where an installation contains expensive or safety-critical electronic equipment, where interruption of operation could have significant consequences, or where the installation is exposed to a relatively high risk of lightning or electrical disturbances.

An SPD does not prevent lightning strikes and cannot guarantee that equipment will remain undamaged following a direct lightning strike or severe surge. Effective protection against lightning may require a coordinated system incorporating external lightning protection, earthing, equipotential bonding and SPDs. The appropriate measures depend on the characteristics and risk profile of the building and its electrical and electronic systems.

SPDs can also deteriorate or fail following repeated or particularly severe surge events. Many devices incorporate an indication of their operational status and some are designed to disconnect from the installation when their protective components reach the end of their service life. Inspection and replacement should be carried out in accordance with the applicable requirements and the characteristics of the installed device.

== Surge protective devices and power strips ==

A power strip or extension lead primarily provides additional socket outlets and does not necessarily provide protection against transient overvoltages. A product described as a surge protector incorporates additional protective components designed to limit transient overvoltages.

The presence of an SPD does not, however, make an electrical installation inherently safe from all forms of electrical fault. SPDs are one element of an electrical protection system and do not replace fuses, circuit-breakers, residual current devices or other protective measures.

== Protection against lightning ==

Lightning can produce substantial transient overvoltages in electrical and electronic systems. These can be caused by a direct strike or by electromagnetic and conductive effects associated with a nearby strike. A lightning protection system provides a controlled path for lightning current and helps protect a structure from physical damage, while SPDs can reduce the risk of damage to electrical and electronic systems from associated transient overvoltages.

Where a building has an external lightning protection system, the design of surge protection should be coordinated with that system. Equipotential bonding and suitable earthing arrangements are also important in controlling potential differences during a lightning event.

= Maintenance and inspection =

SPDs should be inspected as part of the maintenance of the electrical installation. The inspection should include checking the condition and status indication of the device, where provided, and identifying signs of overheating, physical damage or failure.

The required maintenance interval depends on the type of installation, the environment, the risk of lightning and surges, and the requirements of the relevant standards. An SPD that has operated beyond its specified capability or reached the end of its service life may require replacement.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Power surge
* Lightning protection system
* Lightning conductor
* Earthing
* Electrical safety
* Electrical wiring
* Conductor
* 18th Edition Wiring Regulations
* Concept services design

[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Definitions]] [[Category:Education]] [[Category:Theory]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

MS IEC 62305 Compliant Lightning Protection Solutions

2026-09-04T05:13:58Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

MS IEC 62305 is the Malaysian adoption of the IEC 62305 series of standards for protection against lightning. The series provides principles and requirements for assessing lightning risk and for designing, installing, inspecting and maintaining lightning protection systems (LPS) for buildings and other structures.

Lightning protection is intended to reduce the risk of physical damage to structures, injury to people and damage to electrical and electronic systems resulting from lightning. Protection measures may include an external lightning protection system, equipotential bonding, earthing and surge protection measures. The appropriate measures depend on the characteristics and use of the structure, the consequences of lightning damage and the results of a lightning risk assessment.

= MS IEC 62305 and lightning protection =

== Structure of the standard ==

The MS IEC 62305 series is based on the IEC 62305 series and addresses different aspects of lightning protection. Its principal parts cover general principles, risk management, physical damage to structures and life hazard, and protection of electrical and electronic systems within structures.

Risk assessment is an important part of the approach. It considers the likelihood and consequences of lightning-related events and allows appropriate protection measures to be selected. Protection is not necessarily required to the same extent for every building; the level and type of protection should reflect the assessed risk and the requirements applicable to the particular structure.

Compliance with a standard should not be confused with statutory approval. Whether a lightning protection system is required by legislation or building regulations depends on the applicable legal and regulatory framework. MS IEC 62305 provides a technical basis for design and implementation where the standard is applicable or specified.

== Components of a lightning protection system ==

A lightning protection system normally comprises an arrangement of conductors and components designed to provide a controlled path for lightning current and to reduce the resulting risks. Depending on the design, this can include:

* air-termination systems;
* down-conductors;
* earth-termination systems;
* bonding conductors and equipotential bonding arrangements;
* isolating or separation measures where required; and
* surge protective devices (SPDs) for electrical and electronic systems.

An air-termination system provides defined points or surfaces at which a lightning discharge can terminate. It does not prevent lightning strikes or necessarily attract lightning. Its purpose is to provide a suitable interception arrangement and conduct the resulting current safely through the lightning protection system.

Down-conductors provide paths between the air-termination system and the earth-termination system. Their arrangement is important in controlling the current path, reducing the likelihood of dangerous sparking and limiting electromagnetic effects.

The earth-termination system provides a means of dispersing lightning current into the ground. Its design is considered together with the rest of the lightning protection system rather than being assessed solely by its earth resistance value.

Equipotential bonding can reduce dangerous potential differences between conductive parts of a structure during a lightning event. Electrical and metallic services entering a building may also require appropriate bonding and surge protection measures.

SPDs are used to limit transient overvoltages and divert surge currents associated with lightning and other electrical events. Their selection and installation should be coordinated with the electrical installation and the lightning protection system.

= Design, installation and maintenance =

Lightning protection should be considered during the design of a building or structure because the arrangement of structural, electrical and mechanical systems can affect the practicality and effectiveness of the completed system. The design should take account of the building geometry, materials, services, occupants, contents, electrical and electronic systems and the consequences of a lightning event.

Where an LPS is required, its components should be selected and installed so that they provide electrically continuous and mechanically suitable current paths. Particular attention may be required where conductors pass close to conductive services or other metallic components, because differences in electrical potential during a lightning event can result in side-flashing or dangerous sparking. Separation distances, bonding and other measures should therefore be considered as part of the overall design.

Installation should follow the design and the requirements of the applicable parts of MS IEC 62305. Components should be appropriately secured and protected against mechanical damage and corrosion, and connections should provide reliable electrical continuity.

Inspection and maintenance are necessary because the condition of a lightning protection system can change during the life of a building. Conductors and connections may be damaged, corroded or altered during building work, while extensions, new services, roof modifications and changes to electrical installations can affect the original design. Periodic inspection should therefore consider the condition and continuity of the system and whether alterations to the building have affected its suitability.

The frequency and extent of inspection should be determined by the applicable requirements, the characteristics of the installation and the level of risk. Where defects or significant alterations are identified, assessment and remedial work should be undertaken by appropriately competent persons.

= Risk management and protection of electrical systems =

The objective of lightning risk management is to determine whether protection measures are necessary and, where they are, what measures provide an appropriate reduction in risk. The assessment can consider risks including loss of human life, loss of service to the public, loss of cultural heritage and economic loss, depending on the circumstances and the applicable standard.

Protection against direct lightning effects is only part of the overall strategy. Lightning can also produce transient overvoltages and electromagnetic effects that may damage electrical and electronic equipment without a direct strike to the equipment itself. Buildings containing sensitive electronic systems may therefore require coordinated measures including SPDs, bonding and appropriate routing and separation of services.

A lightning protection system should also be coordinated with other building systems. Metallic services, electrical installations, communications systems, photovoltaic installations and other conductive components can provide pathways for lightning current or transient energy. Changes to these systems after completion should be assessed to determine whether the original lightning protection arrangements remain appropriate.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Lightning protection system
* Lightning conductor
* Earthing
* Electrical safety
* Fire safety design
* Risk in building design and construction
* Building services
* Concept services design
* Power surge

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

A guide to Bolt Tensioning

2026-09-04T05:11:40Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

Hydraulic bolt tensioners find more prevalent use in bolting applications across Europe compared to the United States. These tensioners are commonly used on fasteners with a diameter of 2 inches or larger, although they can also accommodate studs as small as ¾ inches in diameter.

Their application spans various industries, with notable usage in subsea both topside and underwater, wind turbine, and power generation sectors. While less commonly used in the oil & gas industry, tensioning tools prove beneficial for critical bolted joints such as those found in heat exchangers and large pressure vessels.

[[File:Bolting_Tension.png|link=File:Bolting_Tension.png]]

Achieving 50% or greater tensioner coverage yields more uniform and precise gasket compression compared to conventional torque wrench methods, including single or multiple torque wrench applications.

A key advantage of stud tensioners lies in their ability to eliminate the friction factor or k-factor between the stud and nut face. Furthermore, tensioners generally offer greater accuracy, boasting a rating of plus or minus 10%, in contrast to the 30% accuracy typical of other methods.

It is often claimed that hydraulic bolt tensioners allow for more frequent reuse of stud bolts by mitigating concerns of galling or frictional forces on the fastener. While laboratory findings support this assertion, it's important to consider real-world operating conditions, such as temperature and pressure variations, which can impact the longevity of fasteners over time.

== Using Bolt Tensioners in Practical Scenarios ==

One challenge with tensioners lies in their requirement for increased spacing. While this isn't typically problematic with standard piping flanges, space constraints may arise when dealing with valves and specialised flanges, such as those found on heat exchangers.

Furthermore, the maximum stud preload stress achievable with tensioners typically ranges between 50,000 to 60,000 psi. If aiming for preload levels exceeding 60,000 psi, a specialised tensioner is likely necessary.

Additionally, using tensioners needs additional stud length. The rule of thumb dictates having one stud diameter protruding above the nut to enable the puller bar to grip the stud when pressure is applied via the load cell. Hence, to calculate the required size, one must add another diameter of the stud to the standard stud length used for torquing.

Avoid using washers with tensioners, as the tensioner's footprint may rest on the washer, causing it to bow up and potentially resulting in the tensioner becoming locked in place.

Another drawback of tensioners is their limited suitability in high-temperature environments. Consequently, while assembling the flange at ambient temperatures is feasible with tensioning, post-startup adjustments, commonly referred to as hot tension passes, are not viable as the seals may blow and fail to sustain pressure.

== How Hydraulic Tensioning Works ==

Beginning from the base of the unit, the fundamental components of a hydraulic tensioner include:

* Nut: Positioned on the flange, while the bridge surrounds the nut. The bolt extends through the nut, requiring one diameter of the stud to protrude above it for proper installation.
* Load cell: Located above the nut, housing the hydraulic piston. A nipple connected to the load cell allows oil to enter at a specified hydraulic pressure from the tensioner pump.
* Puller bar: Situated on the piston, which is threaded onto the stud. The hydraulic pressure from the pump and the dimensions of the load cell determine the force exerted on the bolt.

Bolt tensioning involves covering 50% or 25% of the bolts within a flange.

- 50% coverage entails using one tensioner for every other bolt and is considered standard practice. While 25% coverage is possible, it is not recommended due to increased passes, greater difficulty for the assembler, and reduced accuracy.

== Hydraulic Tensioning Safety ==

Safety in hydraulic tensioning is paramount. The primary concern revolves around the handling of high-pressure hydraulic fluid, which flows from the tensioner pump to the load cell and subsequently to other tensioners. The immense pressure of this fluid poses a significant risk of injury, underscoring the importance of adhering to proper storage, cleanliness, and safety protocols before commencing operations. Any signs of wear or damage on hoses or fittings should prompt immediate replacement.

Moreover, assemblers must avoid positioning themselves directly above the tensioner during operation. In the event of insufficient thread engagement, stripping, or other issues, a dislodged tensioner could potentially become a hazardous projectile. Therefore, always ensure that assemblers are positioned to the side of the tensioners, rather than directly above the puller bar.

== Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Calibration ==

Seals often emerge as the primary culprit for issues encountered with hydraulic tensioners. Similar to hydraulic torque wrench pumps, contaminants like oil, dirt, or other debris present in the hydraulic fluid can infiltrate the tools and deteriorate the seals, often causing the initial components to fail.

Beyond the seals, hydraulic tensioners typically require minimal maintenance. Another significant troubleshooting point is to inspect the couplers if a tensioner is malfunctioning. Regarding calibration, ensuring that the measure has been calibrated within the last 12 months is all that's necessary.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Adhesive.
* Clamp.
* Construction equipment.
* Construction staples.
* Construction tools.
* Cramp.
* Crimp.
* Fittings.
* Fixture.
* Fixing v fastening.
* Nails - a brief history.
* Off-site prefabrication of buildings: A guide to connection choices.
* Rivet.
* Staple.
* Strap.
* Structural fasteners.
* Structural steelwork.
* Types of bolts.
* Types of fixings.
* Types of nails.
* Types of nuts.
* Types of screws.
* Types of washer.
* Welding.

[[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Guide To Fire Extinguisher Requirements For Construction Sites

2026-09-04T05:11:06Z

Designing Buildings: Reverted edits by Zakimasood (talk) to last revision by Editor

= Fire extinguishers and construction sites =

Construction sites are dynamic environments where the risk of fire is significant due to the presence of various materials, equipment and processes. To reduce the risk of fires, it is important that these sites have fire extinguishers.

This guide explores requirements for fire extinguishers on construction sites and the types of extinguishers required. It also discusses legal requirements and the importance of training.

Fire extinguishers are essential on construction sites to ensure the safety of workers and the property. These environments are prone to fire hazards due to flammable materials, electrical equipment and hot work. Immediate access to fire extinguishers can prevent small fires from escalating into significant incidents, saving lives and reducing damage.

= Types of fire extinguishers required on construction sites =

Construction sites should be equipped with various types of fire extinguishers to tackle different kinds of fires, including:

* Water Extinguishers: Effective for fires involving organic materials such as wood, paper and textiles (Class A fires).
* Foam Extinguishers: These are suitable for liquid fires, like those involving petrol or paints (Class B fires) and can also be used on Class A fires.
* Dry Powder Extinguishers: These are versatile and can be used on Class A, B and C fires (involving gases). However, they're not recommended for enclosed spaces due to the visibility and breathing problems they can cause post-use.
* CO2 Extinguishers: Ideal for electrical fires and effective on Class B fires.
* Wet Chemical Extinguishers: Primarily used for cooking oil or fat fires (Class F fires) but also effective on Class A fires.

= Optimal number & type of fire extinguishers =

The type and quantity of fire extinguishers required on a construction site depend on the site's size, layout and the nature of the work being performed. Generally, there should be at least one fire extinguisher for every 3,000 square feet. Moreover, all workers should be able to reach a fire extinguisher within 100 feet of a potential fire source.

For example, areas with a higher risk of electrical fires should have CO2 extinguishers readily available, while places where flammable liquids are stored need foam or dry powder extinguishers.

= Legal requirements for fire extinguishers at construction sites =

* According to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015), construction site managers and employers are responsible for providing and maintaining appropriate fire-fighting equipment, including fire extinguishers. Under the CDM 2015 Regulations, employers must ensure the following requirements for fire extinguishers:
* Adequate Number and Type: A sufficient number of suitable fire extinguishers must be provided based on the size and layout of the construction site. The type of extinguisher should match the potential fire risks, such as Class A for ordinary combustibles, Class B for flammable liquids and Class C for electrical fires.
* Proper Placement: Fire extinguishers should be placed in conspicuous and easily accessible locations throughout the construction site. They should be visible and unobstructed, ensuring quick access in case of a fire.
* Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Fire extinguishers must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are in working order. This includes checking for damage, corrosion or other defects affecting their functionality. Maintenance records should be kept for each extinguisher.
* Training and Instruction: Construction site workers must be well aware and trained for fire emergencies. This includes adequate knowledge of fire safety protocols and proper use of fire extinguishers.
* Fire Risk Assessment: Construction site managers must conduct a thorough fire risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate control measures. This assessment should consider the specific risks associated with construction activities and materials on-site.

= Importance of training in improving fire safety on construction sites =

Safety training courses play a crucial role in improving construction site safety. These courses equip construction site workers with the knowledge and skills to identify hazards, assess risks, implement effective safety measures and know what to do in case of emergencies.

Fire safety awareness training familiarises workers with fire hazards, prevention measures and emergency response protocols. It helps them identify potential fire risks and take appropriate actions to mitigate them. Fire extinguisher training teaches proper selection, operation, inspection and maintenance of extinguishers, ensuring workers can safely extinguish small fires. Fire Warden Training prepares designated personnel to oversee fire safety procedures and lead evacuation efforts during emergencies.

Providing these training programmes to workers can significantly reduce the risks of fire incidents and prevent panic and injuries in a fire emergency.

= Conclusion =

Fire extinguishers are critical to construction site safety, providing a first line of defence against fires. By understanding the types required, ensuring compliance with legal standards and providing adequate training, construction sites can maintain a safer environment for everyone involved.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Approved Document B (Fire Safety).
* BS EN 3.
* Extinguishment.
* Fire blanket.
* Fire extinguishers.
* Fire retardant.
* Fire safety.
* Fire safety strategy.
* Flame retardant.
* RIBA Plan of Work for Fire Safety.
* Sprinkler.

= External links =

[https://humanfocus.co.uk/ https://humanfocus.co.uk/]

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Building_safety]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]]

Is a Larger Capacity Concrete Batching Plant Always More Cost-Effective? Unit Capacity Investment Cost Analysis

2026-09-04T05:07:29Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

A higher-capacity concrete batching plant does not necessarily provide better value than a smaller plant. Although larger plants can have a lower capital cost per unit of rated production capacity, the economic benefit depends on how effectively that capacity can be used. Equipment cost, utilisation, operating and maintenance costs, labour, site requirements, project duration and concrete demand all influence the overall cost of producing concrete.

A useful initial comparison is the investment cost per unit of rated production capacity. For example, if a 30 m³/h concrete batching plant costs £80,000 and a 60 m³/h plant costs £130,000, their indicative capital costs per unit of rated capacity are approximately £2,667/m³/h and £2,167/m³/h respectively. The larger plant therefore has a lower capital cost per unit of rated capacity. This calculation, however, does not establish which plant will be more economical to operate because rated capacity is not the same as actual production.

= Economies of scale in batching plant investment =

The capital cost of a batching plant does not necessarily increase in direct proportion to its rated output. A higher-capacity plant may require larger aggregate storage, weighing and conveying systems, a larger mixer or more rapid batching cycles, but some components do not need to increase proportionately. Control systems, electrical equipment and certain structural elements may serve a range of production capacities with relatively modest differences in cost.

This can create economies of scale, resulting in a lower capital cost per unit of rated capacity for larger plants. The significance of this saving depends on the extent to which the additional capacity is actually required.

Higher capacity can also reduce the number of operating hours needed to produce a given volume of concrete. For a project requiring a large and relatively continuous supply, this may improve production scheduling and reduce the duration for which plant and labour need to operate. On large infrastructure projects, an appropriately sized batching plant can also provide greater control over concrete supply and reduce dependence on external suppliers.

= The importance of utilisation =

Rated production capacity represents the nominal output under specified operating conditions. Actual output is normally lower because of factors such as batching cycle times, material supply, mixer loading, equipment availability, operator efficiency, maintenance, interruptions and variations in demand.

Consequently, a large plant can have a lower capital cost per unit of rated capacity while having a higher cost per cubic metre of concrete actually produced if it is significantly under-utilised. For example, a 120 m³/h plant operating at an average rate of 25 m³/h has substantially more unused capacity than a smaller plant whose practical output is closely matched to demand. The smaller plant may therefore provide a better return on the capital invested.

Capacity selection should consider both average and peak demand. Relevant information includes:

* average concrete demand per day;
* peak required production rate;
* total concrete volume for the project;
* expected operating days and hours;
* project duration;
* likely interruptions to production;
* requirements for future projects where the plant may be redeployed; and
* the availability and reliability of alternative concrete supplies.

The distinction between average and peak demand is particularly important. Selecting a plant solely to accommodate a short-lived peak can result in substantial unused capacity for most of the project. Conversely, selecting a plant with insufficient capacity can create production bottlenecks, increase operating hours and interfere with concrete placement schedules.

= Whole-life cost and site requirements =

Purchase price and capital cost per unit of capacity provide only part of the economic assessment. A comparison should also consider the costs of installation, foundations, aggregate storage, cement and supplementary cementitious material storage, conveyors, electrical infrastructure, water supply, dust control, drainage, maintenance and other site requirements.

Larger plants can require more space and greater supporting infrastructure. This can increase site preparation and installation costs and may affect the feasibility of using the plant on constrained sites. Mobile plants can reduce some relocation costs in appropriate circumstances, although transportation, assembly and commissioning requirements still need to be considered.

Operating costs should also be assessed. Electricity consumption, fuel where applicable, water, consumables, maintenance, replacement components and labour can all contribute to the cost of concrete production. The relationship between plant size and operating cost is not necessarily linear, so these factors should be assessed using the actual plant configuration and anticipated operating pattern rather than capacity alone.

A useful comparison is therefore based on the estimated whole-life cost of producing the required volume of concrete. Depending on the circumstances, this can include:

* initial equipment and installation costs;
* site preparation and supporting infrastructure;
* transport, assembly and relocation;
* labour;
* energy and water consumption;
* maintenance and replacement components;
* downtime and equipment availability;
* material handling and storage; and
* eventual disposal, resale or redeployment value.

= Matching plant capacity to project requirements =

A batching plant should be selected according to the production requirement rather than simply the largest available nominal capacity. For example, where a project normally requires 25–35 m³/h and only occasionally reaches 40 m³/h, a plant with a rated capacity close to the required production rate may be more economical than one rated at 75 or 100 m³/h. The appropriate selection will depend on the plant's practical output, batching cycle, required operating margin and the consequences of production interruptions.

Conversely, projects involving large and continuous concrete pours may justify a higher-capacity plant. Major infrastructure, industrial and large building projects can require sustained production rates that would make a smaller plant inefficient or incapable of meeting the programme. In such circumstances, the additional capital investment in a larger plant can be offset by higher utilisation and improved production efficiency.

The distinction between a central-mix plant and a dry-batch or ready-mix arrangement can also affect the economic assessment. Plant configuration, mixer capacity, delivery arrangements and the distance between the batching plant and the point of use can influence the practical production rate and the overall cost of supplying concrete.

= Assessing cost-effectiveness =

Unit capacity investment cost is a useful indicator for comparing the capital efficiency of different plants, but it should not be treated as a measure of total cost-effectiveness. A plant with a lower capital cost per unit of rated capacity can still have a higher cost per cubic metre if it operates substantially below its practical capacity or requires disproportionately expensive supporting infrastructure.

A more comprehensive assessment should compare at least:

* capital cost per unit of rated capacity;
* expected annual or project production volume;
* expected utilisation rate;
* operating and maintenance cost per cubic metre;
* installation and infrastructure costs;
* production reliability and downtime;
* project duration and operating pattern; and
* expected residual or redeployment value.

The most economical plant is therefore the one that can meet the required production rate reliably while maintaining an appropriate level of utilisation and avoiding unnecessary capital and operating expenditure. Larger capacity can provide economies of scale where demand is sufficiently high and consistent, but a smaller plant may provide better overall value where demand is lower, variable or limited to a relatively short project.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Concrete batching plants
* Concreting plant
* Component parts of a mobile concrete plant
* What Accounts for the Price Differences Between Different Brands of Concrete Batching Plants
* What to Look for in a Concrete Batching Plant
* Heavy machinery manufacturers in the construction industry
* Dam construction
* Shotcrete technology

[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Fire Doors After Handover: Why Inspection Matters Throughout a Building's Life

2026-09-04T05:05:28Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

A fire door can be correctly specified, tested and installed at handover and still become unreliable later in the life of a building. Buildings are not static: doors are used repeatedly, finishes are altered, access-control equipment is added, door closers are adjusted, seals become damaged, and maintenance work can result in alterations or new penetrations. Fire doors therefore need to be treated as an ongoing part of a building's fire safety measures rather than as components whose performance is established permanently at completion.

= Fire doors during the in-use phase =

At handover, information about fire-resisting construction should be incorporated into the building's fire safety management arrangements. Those responsible for the occupied building need to know where fire doors are located, what function they perform, what level of fire and smoke resistance is required, and what evidence is available concerning the doorsets and their associated hardware.

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to general fire safety in England and Wales and places duties on the responsible person to make suitable arrangements for the effective planning, organisation, control, monitoring and review of preventive and protective measures. This includes maintaining fire safety measures in an efficient state and in efficient working order. In Scotland, general fire safety is governed by separate legislation, principally the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006. The precise inspection and maintenance arrangements therefore depend on the jurisdiction, building type and applicable fire safety requirements.

A door that operated correctly at handover can subsequently be affected by normal use. Hinges can loosen, self-closing devices can become incorrectly adjusted, smoke seals can be damaged or painted over, and locks or access-control equipment can be installed without consideration of the evidence supporting the original doorset. The inspection and maintenance regime should identify changes before they materially affect the fire door's intended performance.

= Inspection and maintenance =

There is no single inspection frequency that is appropriate for every fire door. The frequency and depth of inspection should reflect applicable legislation, the fire risk assessment, the building's use, the location and function of the door, and the degree of wear, damage or alteration to which it is likely to be exposed.

Specific statutory inspection requirements apply to certain residential buildings in England. Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, where the top storey of a multi-occupied residential building is more than 11 m above ground level, responsible persons must arrange checks of communal fire doors at least every three months and flat entrance fire doors at least every 12 months. These checks are intended primarily to identify obvious defects and confirm that fire doors, including their self-closing devices, remain in good working order. They do not replace the wider fire risk assessment or more detailed technical assessment where this is necessary.

In other buildings and circumstances, inspection arrangements should be determined through the fire risk assessment and appropriate fire safety management procedures. Routine visual checks, more detailed periodic inspections and specialist assessments may all have a role, depending on the risk and the condition and complexity of the doors.

== Changes following occupation ==

Fire door defects are often caused by the normal life of a building rather than by a single significant event. Doors in busy corridors can receive repeated impacts from trolleys, equipment and other traffic. Hold-open devices and access-control arrangements may be modified. Decorations can obscure or damage seals and identification markings, while changes to floor finishes can affect the clearance beneath the door leaf. Furniture or other objects can prevent a door from closing fully, and maintenance work can result in replacement ironmongery or other alterations that are incompatible with the original doorset.

These are management issues as well as component defects. Building management arrangements should provide a means for occupants and staff to report problems, together with a clear process for determining whether a defect can be dealt with through routine maintenance or requires assessment by a competent person.

== A fire door is a complete system ==

A fire door should be considered as a complete doorset rather than simply as a door leaf. Depending on its design and application, relevant components can include the door leaf, frame, hinges, latch, lock, closer, glazing, intumescent materials, smoke seals, letterplates and other ironmongery. The compatibility and installation of these components can be critical to the performance of the complete assembly.

A door that appears visually sound can still have a defect that affects its ability to close, latch or resist fire and smoke. Conversely, a visual difference from a contemporary doorset does not necessarily mean that an existing door is inadequate. Assessment should take account of the door's age, construction, condition, intended function, applicable requirements and available evidence of its performance.

This is particularly important when assessing existing flat entrance doors in England. Government guidance makes clear that the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 were not intended to require existing flat entrance doors automatically to meet the standards applicable to new doors in new buildings. A door that satisfied the requirements applicable when it was installed may continue to provide adequate protection if it remains suitable, undamaged and properly maintained. The absence of modern features such as intumescent strips, smoke seals or contemporary certification does not, by itself, establish that an existing door is unsuitable.

Where the condition, construction or history of a fire door creates uncertainty about its adequacy, assessment should be undertaken by a person with appropriate competence. Specialist advice may be required where a detailed assessment, repair, upgrading or replacement is being considered. Alterations to fire doors should not be undertaken solely on the basis of appearance or generic guidance, because modifications can affect the tested or assessed performance of the complete doorset.

= Records and building management =

Finding a defect is only the first stage of effective fire door management. Buildings should have arrangements for recording defects, determining the action required and confirming that remedial work has been completed.

Consistent records can help identify recurring problems. For example, repeated failure or adjustment of door closers, or similar damage affecting doors in a particular part of a building, may indicate a wider problem that requires investigation rather than a series of isolated repairs. Records also provide continuity when responsibility for a building changes between facilities teams, managing agents, landlords or other dutyholders.

Fire door information should be considered alongside the building's wider fire safety information, including the fire risk assessment, records of alterations and maintenance, and information concerning relevant fire-resisting construction. Keeping this information current can help ensure that the condition of fire doors continues to be assessed against the actual building and its fire safety strategy.

= The role of building users =

Formal inspection should not be the only means by which fire door problems are identified. Staff, residents and other building users may be the first to notice that a door closer has failed, a door is being wedged open, a seal has become damaged or hardware has become loose.

Appropriate fire safety awareness can help building users understand the importance of keeping fire doors closed where required, avoiding actions that compromise their performance and reporting obvious defects. Building users do not generally need to undertake technical fire door inspections, but they can form an important part of the reporting and management process.

= Continuing responsibility throughout the building's life =

Specification, testing and installation establish the intended performance of a fire doorset, but ongoing management is necessary to preserve that performance. Inspection should therefore be connected with maintenance, alterations, the fire risk assessment and the way in which the building is occupied.

Changes to doors, frames, hardware, access-control systems, glazing, finishes or surrounding construction should be considered in relation to the fire performance of the complete doorset. Where existing doors are found to be defective or inadequate, repairs, upgrades or replacement should be based on appropriate technical advice and carried out by competent persons.

Handover marks the transition from construction to occupation; it does not end responsibility for fire doors. Their condition and performance need to be managed throughout the life of the building.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Fire doors in buildings
* Fire doorset
* Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
* Fire door inspection scheme (FDIS)
* The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
* Responsible person under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
* Risk assessment under The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
* Fire Safety Act 2021
* Fire and Emergency File
* Fire protection engineering

[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Products_/_components]] [[Category:Building_safety]]

SIP Trunk Providers UK: A Practical Switching Guide

2026-09-03T05:42:03Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) trunking is a method of delivering voice and other real-time communications services over Internet Protocol (IP) networks. It can be used to connect a private branch exchange (PBX) or other business telephone system to a telecommunications provider, replacing or supplementing traditional telephone services such as ISDN.

The transition from traditional public switched telephone network (PSTN) services to digital, IP-based networks has made SIP trunking an important option for organisations operating business telephone systems. Changing SIP trunk provider can nevertheless require careful planning because telephone numbers, PBX configuration, network connectivity and emergency calling arrangements may all be affected.

= Assessing requirements before changing provider =

Before selecting a new SIP trunk provider, the existing telephone system and its requirements should be documented. This includes the number of concurrent calls required at peak periods, the type and configuration of the PBX or hosted telephone system, the telephone numbers in use, and any required services such as call recording, voicemail, call forwarding, conferencing or international calling.

The capacity required for a SIP trunk is generally determined by the number of concurrent calls rather than the total number of calls made over a period. Network capacity should also be assessed because each active call requires bandwidth, and voice quality can be affected by congestion, latency, jitter and packet loss.

The existing telephone-number arrangements should be identified before migration. If numbers are being transferred between providers, the porting process should be planned separately from the technical configuration of the SIP trunk. The ability to port numbers can depend on the number range, geographic allocation and the services associated with the numbers.

Compatibility between the new SIP service and the existing PBX should also be established. Relevant considerations include supported SIP standards, authentication methods, codecs, transport protocols, number presentation, DTMF signalling, registration requirements and any restrictions imposed by the PBX or network configuration.

= Testing and planning the migration =

Where possible, the new SIP service should be tested before the existing service is disconnected. A test deployment can be used to assess call quality, interoperability with the PBX, inbound and outbound calling, caller identification, number presentation, voicemail, call transfer and other functions relevant to the organisation.

Network performance should be assessed under representative operating conditions. Voice traffic is sensitive to delay, variation in packet arrival time (jitter) and packet loss. Quality of service mechanisms may be used on suitable networks to prioritise real-time voice traffic over less time-sensitive data.

Business continuity arrangements should also be considered. SIP services depend on network connectivity and, in many cases, electrical power at the customer premises. A loss of broadband connectivity, local network equipment or power can therefore interrupt telephone services. Resilience may involve diverse network connections, redundant equipment, alternative call routing or other forms of failover, depending on the required level of availability.

The migration should be scheduled for a period when disruption can be tolerated and should include clearly defined responsibilities for the existing provider, new provider, network administrator and telephone-system administrator. Configuration information and contact details should be available to those responsible for the cutover.

= Telephone number porting and cutover =

Telephone-number porting is normally coordinated between the gaining and losing communications providers. The process can take longer than the technical configuration of the SIP trunk, so the porting timetable should be established before a final migration date is selected.

Where the existing service permits it, the new SIP trunk can be configured and tested before numbers are transferred. This allows technical problems to be identified without immediately affecting the existing telephone service. During the final cutover, routing and PBX configuration may need to be changed so that calls use the new service.

The old service should not normally be disconnected immediately after the new service becomes operational. An agreed overlap period can provide additional protection while inbound and outbound calling, number presentation, emergency calling and other services are checked. The precise arrangements depend on the providers and services involved.

Particular attention should be given to emergency calling. Telephone systems using VoIP or SIP may provide access to emergency services, but the location information associated with emergency calls and the operation of the service during loss of power or network connectivity need to be understood and tested. The arrangements should comply with applicable UK telecommunications requirements.

= Operation after migration =

Once migration is complete, the telephone handsets and PBX functions may appear largely unchanged to users. The principal change is that voice traffic is carried using IP networks rather than the traditional circuit-switched infrastructure.

This makes the performance and availability of the organisation's network and internet connectivity more significant. Monitoring can be used to identify problems such as packet loss, excessive latency, jitter, registration failures and loss of connectivity. Fault diagnosis may require examination of both the local network and the provider's SIP infrastructure.

A change of SIP trunk provider does not necessarily require replacement of the PBX. Existing systems can often be retained if they are compatible with the new service. However, migration can provide an opportunity to assess whether an existing PBX remains appropriate or whether a hosted or cloud-based telephone system would better meet future requirements.

= Selecting a SIP trunk provider =

Providers can differ in the network architecture, geographic coverage, number ranges, interconnection arrangements, technical support, resilience and commercial terms they offer. Comparison should therefore consider the complete service rather than relying solely on the advertised cost per channel or call.

Relevant factors include the number of concurrent calls supported, geographic and non-geographic number availability, number porting arrangements, supported codecs and protocols, emergency calling arrangements, resilience, service-level commitments, technical support and any charges for setup, numbers, call recording or additional services.

The location of technical support is not in itself an indication of service quality. More important considerations are the provider's ability to diagnose faults, communicate effectively during an incident and meet the agreed service levels.

Contractual conditions should also be checked before migration. These may include minimum contract periods, termination provisions, number ownership or portability arrangements, charges for unused services and requirements for returning or retaining equipment.

= Frequently asked questions =

== How long does a SIP trunk migration take? ==

The timescale varies according to the complexity of the telephone system, number-porting requirements, network configuration and provider processes. A technically simple migration may be completed relatively quickly, but number porting and testing can extend the overall process.

== Can an existing telephone service and a new SIP trunk operate at the same time? ==

In many cases, yes. Running the services in parallel during testing and the initial migration period can reduce the risk of disruption, although the precise arrangement depends on the PBX and the services being migrated.

== Will staff need to be trained when changing SIP provider? ==

A change of SIP trunk provider may have little effect on ordinary telephone use if the existing handsets and PBX are retained. Training may nevertheless be required if the migration changes telephone-system features, call-handling procedures or user interfaces.

== What are the main risks of a SIP trunk migration? ==

Potential sources of disruption include errors in PBX configuration, number-porting problems, inadequate network capacity, poor network performance, incorrect routing and failures affecting power or connectivity. These risks can be reduced through advance testing, documented configuration, appropriate resilience and a controlled cutover.

== Does changing SIP provider require changing the PBX? ==

Not necessarily. A compatible existing PBX can often continue to be used with a different SIP trunk. Compatibility should be established before the migration because different services may have different technical and configuration requirements.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* All-Internet Protocol
* Information and communications technology in construction
* Building services
* Detailed services design
* Concept services design
* In-building physical infrastructure
* Digital communications and infrastructure dependencies
* Power over ethernet
* Network
* Utilities for construction and operation

[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Procurement]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

The Role of Packaging Design in Protecting Construction and Building Materials

2026-09-03T05:39:24Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

Packaging is an important part of the construction and building-material supply chain. Products such as tiles, glazing, lighting equipment, plumbing components, electrical equipment, hardware, tools and specialist architectural products may pass through several stages of handling, storage and transportation before reaching a construction site. Appropriate packaging can help protect these products against physical damage, moisture, dust, contamination, abrasion and movement during handling and transport.

Packaging requirements vary according to the characteristics of the product and the conditions it is expected to encounter. Weight, dimensions, fragility, surface finish, method of transport, storage duration and handling equipment are among the factors that influence the appropriate packaging solution.

= Packaging requirements and material selection =

Construction products can vary considerably in size, weight, fragility and surface finish. A decorative architectural component may require different protection from a heavy metal fitting, while small fixings may require packaging that allows them to be identified and handled efficiently.

Packaging should be selected according to the risks that a product may face between manufacture and installation. These can include impact during loading and unloading, compression caused by stacking, vibration during transport, exposure to moisture or dust, abrasion between components, unsuitable lifting or handling, and loss or misidentification of individual components. Heavy products may require reinforced packaging or pallet support, while fragile components may require cushioning, dividers, edge protection or purpose-made inserts.

Corrugated fibreboard is widely used for cartons, sleeves, layer pads and internal divisions. Different board grades and flute profiles provide varying levels of rigidity, cushioning and compression resistance. The appropriate specification depends on factors such as product weight, package dimensions, stacking requirements, storage conditions and the expected distribution journey. Corrugated fibreboard is relatively lightweight but its performance can be reduced by prolonged exposure to moisture.

Solid-board cartons and folding cartons may be suitable for smaller construction accessories, fittings and components. They are generally unsuitable for very heavy products unless combined with stronger outer packaging or supporting structures.

Timber crates, cases and pallets can provide structural protection for heavy, oversized or fragile products. They can also facilitate mechanical handling, although they add weight and may require additional storage space. Timber packaging used for international transport may be subject to applicable phytosanitary requirements.

Foam, moulded fibre, paper-based cushioning, cardboard divisions and other protective inserts can restrict movement within a package, separate individual components and protect edges and finished surfaces. Material selection should consider the required level of protection as well as handling, separation and disposal or recycling requirements.

= Moisture and environmental protection =

Moisture can damage or adversely affect many construction products. Metal components may be susceptible to corrosion, while paper-based products, timber and some finishes can be affected by water or prolonged exposure to high humidity. Packaging may therefore incorporate moisture-resistant coatings, liners, films, sealed bags, containers or desiccants where appropriate.

Protection against moisture may also require consideration of condensation during changes in temperature. Packaging should be selected in conjunction with the product's specified storage conditions rather than being regarded as a substitute for suitable storage. Products that are sensitive to moisture may require covered or enclosed storage, raised storage above ground level and protection during loading and unloading.

Packaging requirements can also be influenced by exposure to dust, dirt, ultraviolet radiation, temperature variations and other environmental conditions. The required level of protection should reflect the expected conditions throughout transportation and storage rather than only the conditions at the point of dispatch.

= Packaging for fragile and finished products =

Architectural and building products may incorporate glass, ceramics, decorative finishes, polished surfaces, lighting components and specialist fittings that are particularly susceptible to impact, vibration, scratching or pressure. Internal packaging should restrict excessive movement while avoiding concentrated loads or direct pressure on vulnerable surfaces.

Dividers, cushioning, edge protectors and purpose-made inserts can separate components and reduce the risk of contact damage. Where products are supplied as multiple components, packaging can also help maintain separation and make it easier to identify and check the contents.

Packaging can incorporate handling information where necessary, including instructions relating to lifting, orientation, stacking, opening and storage. Information should be appropriate to the product and should complement, rather than replace, applicable handling and safety requirements.

= Packaging, logistics and site handling =

Packaging affects transportation, warehousing and construction-site logistics as well as product protection. Package dimensions and weight influence vehicle utilisation, storage requirements, manual handling and the use of mechanical handling equipment. Oversized packaging can occupy unnecessary space, while inadequate packaging can increase the likelihood of damage.

Pallets are widely used to support, store and transport construction products and can facilitate movement by forklift truck, pallet truck or other mechanical handling equipment. Packaging and pallet configurations should provide adequate stability during handling and storage.

Construction sites can have restricted storage space, changing access arrangements and multiple deliveries occurring simultaneously. Packaging should therefore be considered in relation to the conditions in which products will be unloaded, stored and moved. Factors include package weight, lifting points, compatibility with handling equipment, stacking stability, ease of inspection, protection after opening and the space required for empty packaging.

Where practicable, packaging and delivery arrangements can be coordinated with the sequence in which products are required for installation. This can reduce unnecessary movement, premature unpacking and the amount of material stored on site. Packaging should not obstruct access routes or create avoidable hazards during handling or storage. Site storage requirements should be considered alongside the packaging design because packaging alone cannot compensate for unsuitable storage conditions.

= Packaging efficiency and sustainability =

Packaging contributes to the material and waste impacts associated with construction. Efficient design aims to provide the necessary level of protection while avoiding unnecessary material, volume and weight.

Measures can include selecting package dimensions appropriate to the product, reducing unnecessary layers, avoiding excessive void space, using recyclable or reusable materials where suitable, and designing packaging that can be readily separated or processed after use. Reusable crates, pallets and other transit systems may be appropriate where products are supplied repeatedly through established supply chains.

The environmental performance of packaging should be assessed alongside its protective function. Reducing packaging at the expense of adequate protection can result in damaged products, additional transport, replacement materials and disposal, potentially increasing the overall environmental impact. Packaging design should therefore seek to minimise material use without compromising the protection required by the product and its distribution conditions.

Packaging waste may include cardboard, paper, plastics, timber and composite materials. Clear identification of packaging materials can assist with segregation and recycling. Where return or reuse systems are practicable, these can reduce the quantity of single-use packaging entering the waste stream.

= Packaging design and testing =

Packaging should be designed around the characteristics and anticipated distribution conditions of the product. Relevant considerations can include dimensions, weight, centre of gravity, fragility, surface finish, transportation distance, handling methods, stacking arrangements, storage duration and exposure to moisture or other environmental conditions.

Testing can be used to assess whether a packaging system provides the required level of protection. Depending on the product and distribution risks, testing may include drop, vibration, compression, stacking, impact and environmental exposure tests. The choice and severity of testing should reflect the actual or anticipated hazards in the supply chain.

Packaging requirements can be incorporated into product and logistics planning rather than being considered only after manufacture. A packaging specification may define acceptable package dimensions and weight, required protection, stacking and storage conditions, handling and lifting methods, labelling requirements, permitted packaging materials, reuse or recycling arrangements, and inspection or testing requirements.

Coordination between manufacturers, suppliers, logistics providers, contractors and site teams can help ensure that packaging remains suitable throughout the supply chain. Packaging is therefore best considered as part of the wider process of product handling, transportation, storage and installation.

= Conclusion =

Packaging plays a practical role in protecting construction products between manufacture and installation. Effective packaging design considers product characteristics, transportation conditions, storage requirements, handling methods, material efficiency and environmental performance.

Appropriately designed packaging can reduce damage, material waste, replacement costs, delays and unnecessary handling. As construction supply chains become more complex, integrating packaging requirements into wider logistics and material-management planning can contribute to more efficient and resilient delivery of construction products.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Packaging construction products for storage and transport
* The use of packaging in the construction industry
* Packaging
* Pallets in construction
* Construction site logistics
* Logistics management in construction
* Site storage
* Construction waste
* Site layout plan for construction
* Supply in construction

[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

News from the web

2026-09-03T05:31:36Z

Designing Buildings:

Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.

-----
[[New_measures_to_clampdown_on_cowboy_builders_and_rogue_bailiffs|New measures to stop people being ripped off]]

[[File:Andy burnham 350.jpg|link=New_measures_to_clampdown_on_cowboy_builders_and_rogue_bailiffs]]

Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.

-----
[[UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase|UK Construction Week]]

[[File:Ukcw_2026_innovation_350.jpg|link=UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase]]

New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.

-----
[[Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026|National Planning Policy Framework]]

[[File:Nppf_2026_350.jpg|link=Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026]]

Understanding the 2026 changes.

-----
[[Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities|ECA's public affairs priorities]]

[[File:ECA_logo_blue_cropped_350.jpg|link=Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities]]

Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.

-----
[[Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities|Domestic projects in Wales]]

[[File:Welsh_Gov-350.jpg|link=Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities]]

Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.

-----
[[Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham|Where performance meets practice]]

[[File:Ukcw_b_350.jpg|link=Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham]]

The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.

-----
[[CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform|NPPF]]

[[File:CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform_350.jpg|link=CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform]]

CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

-----
[[Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network|Leaders in Learning for Practice Network]]

[[File:IHBC_logo_350.png|link=Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network]]

Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

-----
[[The_importance_of_early_engagement|The importance of early engagement]]

[[File:The_importance_of_early_engagement_350.jpg|link=The_importance_of_early_engagement]]

Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.

-----
[[Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers|Mayors are to be given planning call in powers]]

[[File:10_Downing_Street_350.jpg|link=Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers]]

Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.

-----
[[The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times|Sixty years in practice]]

[[File:William_butterfield_350.jpg|link=The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times]]

The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

-----
[[Building_the_future_workforce|Building the future workforce]]

[[File:MindTheGap350.jpg|link=Building_the_future_workforce]]

Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.

-----
[[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]]

New measures to clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs

2026-09-03T05:28:23Z

Designing Buildings:

On 28 August 2026 the government announced a clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs, helping to close loopholes that have let unscrupulous operators fleece households and intimidate people already struggling with debt.

From September 2026, a new government supported scheme will help people identify and hire trusted traders with confidence. Businesses who sign up to the Approved Code will be able to demonstrate that they meet higher standards of customer service, transparency and dispute resolution. There will also be a new system to protect people’s money during building projects with payments directly linked to key project milestones. This will back the many builders across the UK who do the right thing by their customers and prevent them being undercut by rogue operators.

More than one in four UK adults who carried out home improvements work in the past 18 months experienced problems – whether it be projects abandoned halfway through, undue pressure on elderly people to overpay for shoddy work or even builders disappearing on holiday with upfront payments with little to no work completed.

More than 1 in 3 of these faced extra costs, losing an average of £750 of their hard-earned cash. In 2024, people lost over £10.3 billion on home and garden maintenance costs due to losses, overpriced costs or unfair practices. Delays and mounting costs can also cause severe stress which destroys lives.

Tackling growing concerns over unregulated trades is the latest step in the Prime Minister’s series of practical everyday fixes designed to restore fairness and give families more room to breathe.

Prime Minister, Andy Burnham said: "Cowboy builders don’t just rip people off. They leave families with months of stress, the disruption of unfinished work, and that horrible feeling of being taken advantage of. Not only that, but they give the vast majority of decent, hardworking tradespeople a bad name. So we’re putting the cowboys out of business. These changes mean you’ll now have the option to make sure your money is held safely and released bit by bit as the work gets done. It’s the latest in our series of everyday fixes to give people room to breathe and make Britain fairer. We’ve taken on subscription traps, fake discounts, and now we’re coming for the cowboy builders. Enough is enough.”

Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: "Your home is the biggest investment you make. While improving it can be stressful; we are helping families to avoid it turning into a nightmare. We’re taking action to protect consumers, support reputable traders and make sure people can spend their money with greater confidence and security.”

The government also announced tougher regulation to better protect people facing debt in England and Wales through increased oversight of the enforcement industry. Private bailiffs will be held to consistent professional standards and those facing enforcement action will have access to an independent complaints process.

Currently, families are at times pressured into repayments that leave them unable to afford essentials of day-to-day life as they continue to repay what they owe.

Minister for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman said: "Bailiffs have an important job to do, but with that responsibility must come high standards. When someone is already struggling with debt, the last thing they should face is intimidating behaviour, unfair treatment or being pushed into excessive repayment arrangements they cannot afford. That’s why we’re strengthening the rules. All private bailiffs will have to meet proper, professional standards and will be subject to independent oversight - giving people greater protection and somewhere to turn when things go wrong.”

Independent oversight will be made mandatory for private bailiffs in England and Wales, requiring them to be accredited by the Enforcement Conduct Board themselves, or to work for an enforcement firm that is, in order to obtain or renew the certificate they need to work.

To back up this action, Ministers also confirmed longer term plans to overhaul the wider consumer protection landscape. This will examine how organisations like Citizens Advice and Trading Standards work with regulators, enforcement bodies and redress schemes to make the system faster, easier to access, and better at spotting and tackling harm early.

Notes

* The Trusted Payment and Approved Codes Scheme have been developed by the Trusted Payments and the Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman (FHIO) respectively. Find out more here: [https://trustedpayments.uk/ https://trustedpayments.uk/]
* The Trusted Payments app will go live in September 2026, with over 100,000 traders able to access before the end of September. The Approved Code will be live with the first retailers by end of September and fully live by December 2026.
* CTSI and the Approved Code Scheme are working with the Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman (FHIO) to develop an Approved Code in the home improvement sector, which FHIO plan to launch during the Autumn.

You can read more at: [https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-steps-in-to-protect-families-from-cowboy-builders-and-aggressive-bailiffs https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-steps-in-to-protect-families-from-cowboy-builders-and-aggressive-bailiffs]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Glossary of construction slang and other terms.
* Tackling rogue landlords
* Beware of rogue trainers warns the electrotechnical skills partnership
* Housing and Planning Bill 2015
* Housing and Planning Act 2016
* Code of practice
* Consumer Code for Home Builders
* Consumer Code for New Homes (CCNH).
* Cooling off period.
* Homebuyer Report.
* Home Builders Federation.
* Home information pack HIP.

New measures to clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs

2026-09-03T05:27:49Z

Designing Buildings:

On 28 August 2026 the government announced a clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs, helping to close loopholes that have let unscrupulous operators fleece households and intimidate people already struggling with debt.

From September 2026, a new government supported scheme will help people identify and hire trusted traders with confidence. Businesses who sign up to the Approved Code will be able to demonstrate that they meet higher standards of customer service, transparency and dispute resolution. There will also be a new system to protect people’s money during building projects with payments directly linked to key project milestones. This will back the many builders across the UK who do the right thing by their customers and prevent them being undercut by rogue operators.

More than one in four UK adults who carried out home improvements work in the past 18 months experienced problems – whether it be projects abandoned halfway through, undue pressure on elderly people to overpay for shoddy work or even builders disappearing on holiday with upfront payments with little to no work completed.

More than 1 in 3 of these faced extra costs, losing an average of £750 of their hard-earned cash. In 2024, people lost over £10.3 billion on home and garden maintenance costs due to losses, overpriced costs or unfair practices. Delays and mounting costs can also cause severe stress which destroys lives.

Tackling growing concerns over unregulated trades is the latest step in the Prime Minister’s series of practical everyday fixes designed to restore fairness and give families more room to breathe.

Prime Minister, Andy Burnham said: "Cowboy builders don’t just rip people off. They leave families with months of stress, the disruption of unfinished work, and that horrible feeling of being taken advantage of. Not only that, but they give the vast majority of decent, hardworking tradespeople a bad name. So we’re putting the cowboys out of business. These changes mean you’ll now have the option to make sure your money is held safely and released bit by bit as the work gets done. It’s the latest in our series of everyday fixes to give people room to breathe and make Britain fairer. We’ve taken on subscription traps, fake discounts, and now we’re coming for the cowboy builders. Enough is enough.”

Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: "Your home is the biggest investment you make. While improving it can be stressful; we are helping families to avoid it turning into a nightmare. We’re taking action to protect consumers, support reputable traders and make sure people can spend their money with greater confidence and security.”

The government also announced tougher regulation to better protect people facing debt in England and Wales through increased oversight of the enforcement industry. Private bailiffs will be held to consistent professional standards and those facing enforcement action will have access to an independent complaints process.

Currently, families are at times pressured into repayments that leave them unable to afford essentials of day-to-day life as they continue to repay what they owe.

Minister for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman said: "Bailiffs have an important job to do, but with that responsibility must come high standards. When someone is already struggling with debt, the last thing they should face is intimidating behaviour, unfair treatment or being pushed into excessive repayment arrangements they cannot afford. That’s why we’re strengthening the rules. All private bailiffs will have to meet proper, professional standards and will be subject to independent oversight - giving people greater protection and somewhere to turn when things go wrong.”

Independent oversight will be made mandatory for private bailiffs in England and Wales, requiring them to be accredited by the Enforcement Conduct Board themselves, or to work for an enforcement firm that is, in order to obtain or renew the certificate they need to work.

To back up this action, Ministers are also confirmed longer term plans to overhaul the wider consumer protection landscape. This will examine how organisations like Citizens Advice and Trading Standards work with regulators, enforcement bodies and redress schemes to make the system faster, easier to access, and better at spotting and tackling harm early.

Notes

* The Trusted Payment and Approved Codes Scheme have been developed by the Trusted Payments and the Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman (FHIO) respectively. Find out more here: [https://trustedpayments.uk/ https://trustedpayments.uk/]
* The Trusted Payments app will go live in September 2026, with over 100,000 traders able to access before the end of September. The Approved Code will be live with the first retailers by end of September and fully live by December 2026.
* CTSI and the Approved Code Scheme are working with the Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman (FHIO) to develop an Approved Code in the home improvement sector, which FHIO plan to launch during the Autumn.

You can read more at: [https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-steps-in-to-protect-families-from-cowboy-builders-and-aggressive-bailiffs https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-steps-in-to-protect-families-from-cowboy-builders-and-aggressive-bailiffs]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Glossary of construction slang and other terms.
* Tackling rogue landlords
* Beware of rogue trainers warns the electrotechnical skills partnership
* Housing and Planning Bill 2015
* Housing and Planning Act 2016
* Code of practice
* Consumer Code for Home Builders
* Consumer Code for New Homes (CCNH).
* Cooling off period.
* Homebuyer Report.
* Home Builders Federation.
* Home information pack HIP.

New measures to clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs

2026-09-03T05:23:46Z

Designing Buildings: Created page with "28 August 2026 the government announced a clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs, helping to close loopholes that have let unscrupulous operators fleece households and i..."

28 August 2026 the government announced a clampdown on cowboy builders and rogue bailiffs, helping to close loopholes that have let unscrupulous operators fleece households and intimidate people already struggling with debt.

From September 2026, a new government supported scheme will help people identify and hire trusted traders with confidence. Businesses who sign up to the Approved Code will be able to demonstrate that they meet higher standards of customer service, transparency and dispute resolution. There will also be a new system to protect people’s money during building projects with payments directly linked to key project milestones. This will back the many builders across the UK who do the right thing by their customers and prevent them being undercut by rogue operators.

More than one in four UK adults who carried out home improvements work in the past 18 months experienced problems – whether it be projects abandoned halfway through, undue pressure on elderly people to overpay for shoddy work or even builders disappearing on holiday with upfront payments with little to no work completed.

More than 1 in 3 of these faced extra costs, losing an average of £750 of their hard-earned cash. In 2024, people lost over £10.3 billion on home and garden maintenance costs due to losses, overpriced costs or unfair practices. Delays and mounting costs can also cause severe stress which destroys lives.

Tackling growing concerns over unregulated trades is the latest step in the Prime Minister’s series of practical everyday fixes designed to restore fairness and give families more room to breathe.

=== Prime Minister, Andy Burnham said: "Cowboy builders don’t just rip people off. They leave families with months of stress, the disruption of unfinished work, and that horrible feeling of being taken advantage of. Not only that, but they give the vast majority of decent, hardworking tradespeople a bad name. So we’re putting the cowboys out of business. These changes mean you’ll now have the option to make sure your money is held safely and released bit by bit as the work gets done. It’s the latest in our series of everyday fixes to give people room to breathe and make Britain fairer. We’ve taken on subscription traps, fake discounts, and now we’re coming for the cowboy builders. Enough is enough.” ===

=== Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds said: "Your home is the biggest investment you make. While improving it can be stressful; we are helping families to avoid it turning into a nightmare. We’re taking action to protect consumers, support reputable traders and make sure people can spend their money with greater confidence and security.” ===

The government also announced tougher regulation to better protect people facing debt in England and Wales through increased oversight of the enforcement industry. Private bailiffs will be held to consistent professional standards and those facing enforcement action will have access to an independent complaints process.

Currently, families are at times pressured into repayments that leave them unable to afford essentials of day-to-day life as they continue to repay what they owe.

=== Minister for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman said: "Bailiffs have an important job to do, but with that responsibility must come high standards. When someone is already struggling with debt, the last thing they should face is intimidating behaviour, unfair treatment or being pushed into excessive repayment arrangements they cannot afford. That’s why we’re strengthening the rules. All private bailiffs will have to meet proper, professional standards and will be subject to independent oversight - giving people greater protection and somewhere to turn when things go wrong.” ===

Independent oversight will be made mandatory for private bailiffs in England and Wales, requiring them to be accredited by the Enforcement Conduct Board themselves, or to work for an enforcement firm that is, in order to obtain or renew the certificate they need to work.

To back up this action, Ministers are also confirmed longer term plans to overhaul the wider consumer protection landscape. This will examine how organisations like Citizens Advice and Trading Standards work with regulators, enforcement bodies and redress schemes to make the system faster, easier to access, and better at spotting and tackling harm early.

Notes

* The Trusted Payment and Approved Codes Scheme have been developed by the Trusted Payments and the Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman (FHIO) respectively. Find out more here: [https://trustedpayments.uk/ https://trustedpayments.uk/]
* The Trusted Payments app will go live in September 2026, with over 100,000 traders able to access before the end of September. The Approved Code will be live with the first retailers by end of September and fully live by December 2026.
* CTSI and the Approved Code Scheme are working with the Furniture and Home Improvement Ombudsman (FHIO) to develop an Approved Code in the home improvement sector, which FHIO plan to launch during the Autumn.

You can read more at: [https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-steps-in-to-protect-families-from-cowboy-builders-and-aggressive-bailiffs https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-steps-in-to-protect-families-from-cowboy-builders-and-aggressive-bailiffs]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

News from the web

2026-09-03T05:13:03Z

Designing Buildings:

Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.

-----
[[UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase|UK Construction Week]]

[[File:Ukcw_2026_innovation_350.jpg|link=UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase]]

New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.

-----
[[Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026|National Planning Policy Framework]]

[[File:Nppf_2026_350.jpg|link=Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026]]

Understanding the 2026 changes.

-----
[[Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities|ECA's public affairs priorities]]

[[File:ECA_logo_blue_cropped_350.jpg|link=Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities]]

Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.

-----
[[Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities|Domestic projects in Wales]]

[[File:Welsh_Gov-350.jpg|link=Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities]]

Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.

-----
[[Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham|Where performance meets practice]]

[[File:Ukcw_b_350.jpg|link=Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham]]

The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.

-----
[[CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform|NPPF]]

[[File:CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform_350.jpg|link=CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform]]

CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

-----
[[Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network|Leaders in Learning for Practice Network]]

[[File:IHBC_logo_350.png|link=Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network]]

Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

-----
[[The_importance_of_early_engagement|The importance of early engagement]]

[[File:The_importance_of_early_engagement_350.jpg|link=The_importance_of_early_engagement]]

Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.

-----
[[Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers|Mayors are to be given planning call in powers]]

[[File:10_Downing_Street_350.jpg|link=Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers]]

Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.

-----
[[The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times|Sixty years in practice]]

[[File:William_butterfield_350.jpg|link=The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times]]

The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

-----
[[Building_the_future_workforce|Building the future workforce]]

[[File:MindTheGap350.jpg|link=Building_the_future_workforce]]

Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.

-----
[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel Building Safety Regulator, 19 August]

[[File:Gill_Kernick_350.jpg|link=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel]]

Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.

-----
[[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]]

News from the web

2026-09-03T05:10:50Z

Designing Buildings:

Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.

-----
[[UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase|UK Construcion Week]]

[[File:Ukcw 2026 innovation 350.jpg|link=UKCW_Birmingham_puts_innovation_in_the_spotlight_with_new_Futurebuild_showcase]]

New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.

-----
[[Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026|National Planning Policy Framework]]

[[File:Nppf_2026_350.jpg|link=Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026]]

Understanding the 2026 changes.

-----
[[Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities|ECA's public affairs priorities]]

[[File:ECA_logo_blue_cropped_350.jpg|link=Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities]]

Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.

-----
[[Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities|Domestic projects in Wales]]

[[File:Welsh_Gov-350.jpg|link=Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities]]

Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.

-----
[[Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham|Where performance meets practice]]

[[File:Ukcw_b_350.jpg|link=Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham]]

The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.

-----
[[CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform|NPPF]]

[[File:CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform_350.jpg|link=CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform]]

CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

-----
[[Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network|Leaders in Learning for Practice Network]]

[[File:IHBC_logo_350.png|link=Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network]]

Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

-----
[[The_importance_of_early_engagement|The importance of early engagement]]

[[File:The_importance_of_early_engagement_350.jpg|link=The_importance_of_early_engagement]]

Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.

-----
[[Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers|Mayors are to be given planning call in powers]]

[[File:10_Downing_Street_350.jpg|link=Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers]]

Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.

-----
[[The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times|Sixty years in practice]]

[[File:William_butterfield_350.jpg|link=The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times]]

The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

-----
[[Building_the_future_workforce|Building the future workforce]]

[[File:MindTheGap350.jpg|link=Building_the_future_workforce]]

Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.

-----
[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel Building Safety Regulator, 19 August]

[[File:Gill_Kernick_350.jpg|link=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel]]

Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.

-----
[[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]]

File:Ukcw 2026 innovation 350.jpg

2026-09-03T05:08:10Z

Designing Buildings: source: UKCW Birmingham puts innovation in the spotlight with new Futurebuild showcase

source: UKCW Birmingham puts innovation in the spotlight with new Futurebuild showcase

Sustainability in building design and construction

2026-09-02T06:04:19Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Sustainable_Procurement_sml.jpg]]

Sustainability is a broad term describing a desire to carry out activities without depleting resources or having harmful impacts, defined by the Brundtland Commission as 'meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.' (ref. [http://www.un-documents.net/wced-ocf.htm Brundtland Commission, Our Common Future, 1987]).

See also the sustainability of construction works, sustainable procurement, environmental frameworks, assessments and certifications in their historical context, and sustainable materials for construction.

Some broader descriptions include social and economic sustainability (which along with environmental sustainability comprise the three pillars of sustainability) although these can confuse the basic issue of the depletion of resources.

Sustainability in building developments is a vast and complex subject that must be considered from the very earliest stages as the potential environmental impacts are very significant (ref. Technology Strategy Board).

The built environment has historically been estimated to account for a substantial share of total UK carbon emissions, with figures such as the following widely cited in earlier industry guidance:

* 45% of total UK carbon emissions (27% from domestic buildings and 18% from non-domestic).
* 72% of domestic emissions arise from space heating and the provision of hot water.
* 32% of landfill waste comes from the construction and demolition of buildings.
* 13% of products delivered to construction sites are sent directly to landfill without being used.

More recent assessments of the sector's impact increasingly consider whole-life carbon - combining operational emissions with the embodied carbon of materials and construction - rather than operational emissions alone; see, for example, the UK Green Building Council's Whole Life Carbon Roadmap for current sector-wide data and targets.

Once it has been decided to build a new building, as opposed to say changing working practices or refurbishing an existing building, a very significant commitment to consume resources has already been made. Designers and contractors may be able to help limit that consumption, but they cannot change the overall commitment.

This consumption of resources can be even more significant if the client makes a decision to relocate, with the impact this has on their staff, requiring that they either move house or change their travel plans. Decisions such as this which are often made outside of any environmental assessment process can have a far greater impact on sustainability than decisions that designers are able to influence such as the form of the building and selection of materials.

Key decisions may be picked up by an environmental impact assessment on larger projects, but even then, this can be a post-rationalisation process used to justify decisions to the local planning authority, rather than a genuine decision-making process.

Clients may wish therefore to appoint an independent client adviser with specialist knowledge of sustainability during the very early stages of their project (before the consultant team has been appointed) to help them address these high-level decisions.

Clients may have an existing environmental policy, that sets out an overall sustainability vision, as well as detailed objectives and targets. They may also have environmental accreditation such as ISO 14000 (a series of standards which provides a framework for environmental management).

Other standards may be imposed by funders, the building regulations, and planning legislation (including the possible need for an environmental impact assessment). It is wise however to write a specific environmental plan for the development being considered, as building projects involve many detailed issues that go beyond the scope of an existing corporate plan.

A project-specific environmental plan could form part of the brief, or on larger projects might be a stand-alone document. It might include an overall vision, objectives and specific targets in relation to:

* Business planning: the need for a new building as opposed to doing nothing, refurbishment or changes in working practices.
* Selection of consultants: contractual requirements in relation to the selection of materials, monitoring and reporting, track record, environmental accreditation and qualifications of staff.
* Selection of location: availability of transport, the selection of a greenfield or brownfield site, the local availability of resources and services, the local infrastructure and local ecology.
* Project brief: procurement route, travel plan, working methods, standards, ecology and landscape, energy use and energy source, flexibility and durability, waste management, water management, material selection and pollution, public engagement, community involvement, assessment of existing occupation practice, types of contracts etc.
* Resilience: resilience to climate change, biodiversity net gain, golden thread approach, net-zero approach, future proofing, design for deconstruction or adaptability, designing for future climates, extreme weather conditions, driving rain, increased wind speeds and energy security, community engagement and local benefits etc.
* Design: energy use and energy source, embodied energy or carbon, use of harmful materials, material sources, ecology and landscape, flexibility and durability, waste management, water management, disposal, travel plan and pollution etc.
* Tender: contractual requirements such as whole life assessment of products, embodied carbon calculations, energy performance targets, material performance targets, ventilation strategy and free areas, indoor air quality, design out waste targets, construction impacts, monitoring and reporting, working practices, track record, environmental accreditation, competency assessments and qualifications of staff etc.
* Construction: transport, embodied energy or carbon, reuse of materials or elements, whole life impacts, use of harmful materials, material sources, working methods, site waste management plan, recycling, pollution, wheel washing, dust generation, noise, operations manuals, handover approach, building management systems, certification schemes and evidence etc.
* Operation: energy source, energy use, water management, maintenance, resource management, waste management, flexibility, durability, landscape and ecology, pollution, post occupancy evaluation, evaluation and feedback.
* Disposal: dismantling and demolition, re-use, re-sale and recycling, landscape and ecology, hazardous materials and pollution.

The environmental plan should:

* Set specific, measurable targets.
* Set standards that must be adhered to.
* Establish risks and mitigation measures.
* Establish procedures for communication and training.
* Establish procedures for monitoring and reporting.
* Establish procedures for revision and updating.

Environmental plans require policing, and on a large project this can be a full-time job for a specialist. At the client level, a senior champion should be appointed to take responsibility for environmental matters.

Predicting the likely environmental performance of a development during the design phase is becoming more important as regulations become increasingly strict.

As well as the building regulations, and government targets for low carbon construction (see [http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20121212135622/http:/www.bis.gov.uk/constructionigt Low carbon construction plan]), the [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework National Planning Policy Framework] makes clear that there should be a presumption in favour of granting planning permission for sustainable development, this might include low-carbon developments, and developments with resilience to climate change. This should be reflected in design and access statements for outline planning applications.

There are a vast number of assessment tools, standards and networks available to help assess and improve on different aspects of environmental performance:

* [http://www.breeam.org/ BREEAM.]
* [http://www.passivhaus.org.uk Passivhaus.]
* SAP the Government's Standard Assessment Procedure for energy rating of dwellings.
* Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), an international green building certification system.

These assessment techniques are beginning to allow whole-life costing to form a fundamental part of the design process as it becomes possible to demonstrate that higher initial costs can sometimes result in lower long-term impacts and greater long-term benefits. Demonstration of actual performance in use may be necessary through requirements for Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) or Display Energy Certificates (DECs).

Appointments should make clear the extent and standard of environmental performance and assessment that is required.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Circular economy.
* Climate change science.
* Ecological impact assessment.
* Economic sustainability.
* Energy Performance Certificates.
* Environmental impact assessment.
* Environmental legislation.
* Environmental plan.
* Green building.
* Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
* Low carbon.
* Passivhaus.
* Reduce, reuse, recycle.
* Regenerative design.
* Site waste management plan.
* Sustainable development.
* Sustainable materials.
* Sustainable procurement.
* Sustainable urban drainage systems.
* Zero carbon homes.

= External references =

The RIBA has produced a Green overlay to the Plan of work. This provides supplementary guidance on the integration of sustainability into the design process.

[http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20100503135839/http:/www.ogc.gov.uk/documents/CP0016AEGuide11.pdf Sustainability, Achieving Excellence in Construction Procurement Guide, OGC, 2007 (archived).]

* [http://www.greenspec.co.uk/ Greenspec green building products and other guidance.]
* [https://www.greenspec.co.uk/building-design/glossary-a/ Greenspec glossary of green terms.]

Carbonlite an AECB initiative providing the tools and knowledge to create low-energy buildings.

* [http://www.sustainablebuild.co.uk/ Sustainable Build: The Complete Guide to Building Sustainably.]
* [http://www.aecb.net/ AECB], a network of individuals and companies with a common aim of promoting sustainable building.
* [http://www.greenbuildingstore.co.uk/ Green Building Store, products for low energy buildings.] (now trading as part of the 21 Degrees group).

Zero Carbon Hub: Allowable Solutions for Tomorrows New Homes. (Zero Carbon Hub closed in 2016; its technical work was subsequently taken forward by other industry bodies.)

The National Planning Policy Framework, which sets out the presumption in favour of sustainable development, is available at: [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework]

The Framework for Sustainable Development on the Government Estate (archived) has sections covering procurement and estate management: [http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/HowDHworks/Servicestandardsandcommitments/Sustainabledevelopment/DH_4105876 http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/www.dh.gov.uk/en/Aboutus/HowDHworks/Servicestandardsandcommitments/Sustainabledevelopment/DH_4105876]

* [http://www.bsria.co.uk/services/design/soft-landings/ BSRIA Soft Landings.]
* [https://www.wrap.ngo/wraps-built-environment-programme WRAP's Built Environment Programme.]

Cabinet Office summary of government advice on sustainability (archived): [http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20130129110402/http:/www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/green_book_guidance_environment.htm http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20130129110402/http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/green_book_guidance_environment.htm]

RIBA Guide to sustainability in practice.

UK Green Building Council: Pinpoint, a database of sustainability resources, training and tools: [http://pinpoint.ukgbc.org/ http://pinpoint.ukgbc.org/]

Carbon Trust [https://www.carbontrust.com/news-and-insights/insights/building-a-lower-carbon-construction-industry Building a lower-carbon construction industry] and [http://www.carbontrust.com/resources/guides/energy-efficiency/buildings-energy-efficiency Buildings energy efficiency] guides.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Legislation]] [[Category:DCN_Policy]] [[Category:DCN_Standard]] [[Category:Other_legislation]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Sustainability]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Surrey_Hills_AONB]]

Certificate of making good defects

2026-09-02T06:02:33Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

The certificate of making good defects is now referred to as the 'certificate of making good' in the JCT 2016 and 2024 suites of contracts.

= The purpose of the certificate of making good defects (CMGD) =

Once practical completion has been certified, the defects liability period begins (now called the 'rectification period' in [http://www.jctltd.co.uk/ Joint Contracts Tribunal] (JCT) contracts). Typically, the defects liability period is six to twelve months.

During this period, the client reports any defects that arise in the works to the contract administrator who decides whether they are in fact defects (i.e. works that are not in accordance with the contract), or whether they are maintenance issues. If the contract administrator considers that they are defects, then they may issue instructions to the contractor to make good the defects within a reasonable time.

For more information, see Making good.

At the end of the defects liability period, the contract administrator prepares a schedule of defects, listing those defects that have not yet been rectified, and agrees with the contractor the date by which they will be rectified. Defects must be made good within a 'reasonable time', and at the contractor's cost.

NB: It is the contractor's responsibility to identify and rectify defects, not the client's or the contract administrator's, so if they do bring defects to the contractor's notice, they should make clear that this is not a comprehensive list of all defects.

When the contract administrator considers that all items on the schedule of defects have been made good, they issue a certificate of making good defects. This has the effect of releasing the remainder of any retention and brings about issuing of the final certificate.

= Particular circumstances relating to the certificate of making good defects =

If the contractor, having been given the opportunity to rectify defects, fails to do so within a reasonable time, they may be in breach of contract. In this situation others may be employed to rectify the defects, and the cost of such works deducted from the contractor's retention.

In particular circumstances where the cost of rectifying a defect is disproportionate relative to the impact of the defect on the works, the client may agree to have the certificate of making good defects issued anyway, but only on agreement that the contract sum is reduced by an amount that reflects the reduction in the value of the works as a consequence of the defect.

If a defect becomes apparent after the certificate of making good defects has been issued, but before the final certificate has been issued, the contractor may be given the opportunity to rectify the defect anyway, but the final certificate should not be issued until this has been done.

On construction management projects and management contract projects, a separate certificate of practical completion is issued for each trade contract (or works contract). This means that defects liability periods may be at different times for each trade contract (or works contract).

Where sectional completion (or phased completion) occurs, a separate certificate of making good defects may be issued for each section and then for the whole of the works. This may also be the case where the client arranges for partial possession of part of the works.

NB: The Housing Grants Construction and Regeneration Act disallows 'pay when paid' clauses, this means that it is no longer acceptable for a contractor to withhold the release of retention to a subcontractor simply because they themselves have not had their retention released.

= What are defects? =

Defects are works that have not been carried out in accordance with the contract. Defects which are discoverable before the end of the defects liability period are described as 'patent defects'. Defects which could not have been discovered during the defects liability period are known as 'latent defects' (for example, a problem with foundations which have been covered up and does not become apparent until several years later when settlement causes cracks to appear).

Patent defects should be rectified as an ongoing process, and certainly, before the certificate of practical completion is issued, then before the certificate of making good defects is issued and ultimately before the final certificate is issued.

Latent defects can result in liability for damages for up to 15 years. [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1980/58 The Limitation Act 1980] governs time limits for bringing different types of legal claims.

Latent defects can be highly problematic and very expensive to repair. If there is a suspicion of latent defects, it is sensible to have investigations carried out before the end of the defects liability period.

= Difficulties surrounding practical completion =

It is important to note that the defects liability period is not a chance to correct problems apparent at practical completion, it is a period during which the contractor may be recalled to rectify defects which appear. If there are defects apparent before practical completion, then these should be rectified before a certificate of practical completion is issued.

This can put the contract administrator in a difficult position, where both the contractor and the client are keen to issue the certificate (so that the building can be handed over) and yet defects (more than a de minimis) are apparent in the works. Issuing the certificate however could render the contract administrator liable for problems that this causes, for example in the calculation of liquidated damages.

If the contract administrator is pressured to certify practical completion even though the works are not complete, they might consider informing the client in writing of the potential problems of doing so, obtaining written consent from the client to certify practical completion and obtaining agreement from the contractor that they will complete the works and rectify any defects.

It might also be possible to prepare a qualified practical completion certificate however care must be taken to use the correct wording. If the contract administrator is not confident about the potential problems surrounding practical completion, they might advise the client to seek legal advice.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Building completion.
* Certificate of practical completion.
* Certificates in the construction industry.
* Completion date.
* Contract administrator.
* De minimis.
* Defects.
* Defects certificate.
* Defects liability period.
* Defects list.
* Final certificate.
* Latent defects.
* Liquidated damages.
* Making good.
* Opening up works for inspection and testing.
* Practical completion.
* Retention.
* Retention bond.
* Schedule of defects.
* Substantial completion.

= External references =

* [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1980/58 The Limitation Act 1980]
* Blake Turner: Building defects; the legal position.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Contracts_/_payment]] [[Category:Procurement]]

How to take off construction works

2026-09-02T05:53:40Z

Designing Buildings:

= What is taking off? =

The term 'taking off' or 'take off' or 'takeoff' refers to the process of identifying and quantifying elements of construction works that can be measured and priced. This can be used to produce bills of quantities that can be issued to tenderers for them to prepare a price for carrying out the works. Contractors and subcontractors may also use the process to determine quantities required if these have not been provided to them.

Taking off requires that the design is complete and a specification has been prepared.

For more information see: Taking off construction works.

Taking off can be carried out using paper-based techniques, but it is now more commonly done on spreadsheets or using specialist software. The introduction of building information modelling has allowed the automation of some tasks associated with taking off. Whatever the process adopted, the underlying mathematics remain the same as for the traditional paper-based technique as described below.

= Paper-based taking off =

Traditional taking off used dimension paper which is made of a series of columns:

* The timesing column, which gives the factor of multiplication for the measurements in the dimension column.
* The dimension column, where the measurements are set down as taken from the drawings.
* The squaring column, where the calculated volumes, areas, and so on, are set out.
* The description column, where the description of the work item in relation to the measurements is written.

[[File:Takingoff1.JPG]]

= Dimensions for taking off =

The dimensions that are measured will be in one of the following forms:

* Cubic measurements (e.g. 3 m x 3 m x 3 m).
* Square measurements (e.g. 3 m x 3 m), also known as superficial measurements.
* Linear measurements (e.g. 3 m).
* Enumerated items (e.g. 'Nr. 3').
* Item (e.g. 'Testing').

Dimensions are usually set down in order of horizontal length, horizontal width or breadth, and vertical depth or height. It is important for the sake of consistency throughout the taking off that this order is maintained.

[[File:Takingoff2.JPG]]

= Timesing for taking off =

This is a method in which several items that have the same measurements can be set down without having to replicate calculations multiple times.

The number of times that the measurement in the dimension column is to be multiplied is set down in the timesing column and separated using a diagonal stroke. The same item can be timesed multiple times by setting down additional numbers in the timesing column.

In the first example below, the cubic measurement 3.00 x 2.00 x 1.00 is to be multiplied by 2.

In the second example below, the same measurement, once multiplied by 2, is then multiplied by 4.

[[File:Takingoff3.JPG]]

= Dotting on =

Dotting on is used to add dimensions together in the timesing column rather than multiplying. The numbers are positioned diagonally in the column with the dot between them to avoid any confusion with decimals.

In the first example below, the cubic measurement 3.00 x 2.00 x 1.00 is multiplied by (1 + 4) 5.

In the second example below, the same measurement is multiplied by (1 + 4) 5, which is then multiplied by 2.

[[File:Takingoff4.JPG]]

= Waste calculations =

It is important that any calculations done to work out the dimensions that are entered into the dimension column are written down as waste calculations on the right-hand side of the description column. This is so that if someone reviews the taking off to check for accuracy, the process by which the final figures have been calculated can be traced back.

= Alterations =

Where incorrect dimensions have been set down, they should be neatly crossed out with 'nil' written alongside in the squaring column. This indicates that the dimensions are cancelled. Care should be taken to avoid confusion with the 'nil' label in terms of how many figures are to be cancelled and which are still to be used in the calculations.

In the example below, the square measurement 4.00 x 2.00 has been cancelled.

[[File:Takingoff5.JPG]]

= Descriptions =

The description of the item being measured is included in the description column alongside the calculations. The contents of the description should correspond to the New Rules of Measurement (NRM). Where there is more than one set of calculations associated with the same description, then they can be bracketed together on the outside of the squaring column.

[[File:Takingoff6(corrected).JPG]]

= Anding-on =

This is where there are two or more descriptions that apply to the same measurement. The descriptions are separated in the description column by '&' so as to clearly distinguish between them. They can also be bracketed together for clarity.

Where items are to be deducted or added, they are preceded by 'Deduct' or 'Add' in the description column.

[[File:Takingoff7(corrected).JPG]]

The New Rules of Measurement (NRM) suite referred to above was reissued by RICS as practice information in October 2022, incorporating a 2021 update; RICS has confirmed that earlier editions of NRM are now out of date.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Advantages of a bill of quantities.
* Bill of quantities.
* Common Arrangement of Work Sections (CAWS).
* Common mistakes in bill of quantities.
* Computers in tendering.
* Conversion of material volumes.
* Elemental cost plan.
* Extra over (EO).
* Firm bill of quantities.
* Measurement.
* Measurement of existing buildings.
* New Rules of Measurement.
* NRM 1.
* NRM 2.
* Quantity surveyor.
* Size.
* Spot items.
* Taking off construction works.
* Tender.
* Working up construction works.

= External references =

'Willis's Elements of Quantity Surveying' (10th ed.), LEE, S., TRENCH, W., WILLIS, A., Blackwell Publishing (2005). The work is now in its 14th edition (Hills, R. and Lee, S., Wiley, 2024).

[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Project_Knowledge]] [[Category:DCN_Standard]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Roles_/_services]]

CIOB articles

2026-09-02T05:50:38Z

Designing Buildings:

The following articles were created with content sourced from the Chartered Institute of Building.

-----
# Understanding the changes to the National Planning Policy Framework 2026. September 2026
# The importance of early engagement. August 2026
# CIOB publishes free building regulations and Building Safety Act advice for clients. August 2026
# CIOB responds to built environment professions call for evidence. August 2026
# Art of Building 2026. August 2026
# Silica toolkit. August 2026
# Combining mid-career qualifications with experience broadens career opportunities. July 2026
# CIOB reacts to new Prime Minister. July 2026
# Bridging the gap between clients and contractors: From insight to practical delivery. June 2026
# The King’s Speech May 2026. (mention) May 2026
# Cyber Security in the Built Environment: Protecting projects, data, and digital assets. May 2026
# CIOB stresses importance of construction to new Scottish and Welsh governments. May 2026
# Everywhere to see: Women's Contributions to the Built Environment. May 2026
# What the UK’s new housing standards mean for homes, landlords and tenants. April 2026.
# Survey on CDM Regulations launched by CIOB‎. April 2026.
# Construction SMEs face mounting cost pressures and insolvencies despite continuous growth, report warns. March 2026
# Male construction workers and prostate cancer. March 2026
# CIOB student challenge inspires a new 2026 wave of Irish construction professionals. March 2026
# CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2025/26. March 2026
# Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction. March 2026
# National construction careers campaign needed to meet development demand. March 2026
# Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment. March 2026
# Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeship routes, CIOB data shows. March 2026
# Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management. February 2026.
# Chartered bodies call for greater recognition of professional standard (mention). February 2026.
# Core construction skills explained. February 2026.
# Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share. February 2026.
# Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong. February 2026.
# Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI with 2025-30 plan. February 2026.
# Intellectual property rights, copyright, patents, and trademarks (mention). February 2026.
# Welsh and Scottish 2026 elections (mention). February 2026.
# CIOB publishes Scottish Election Manifesto. February 2026.
# CIOB publishes Welsh Election Manifesto. February 2026.
# Looking back on CIOB Academy in 2025 and where it's going next. January 2026.
# Resident engagement as the key to successful retrofits. January 2026.
# The Warm Homes Plan details released. (mention), January 2026.
# From QS to Further Education Teacher. January 2026.
# AI and Construction. The Power of Progress, Not Perfection. January 2026.
# Dr Victoria Hills joins CIOB as CEO. January 2026.
# CIOB December Policy Update. December 2025.
# Industry reaction, as MHCLG publishes single construction regulator prospectus. December 2025.
# Building Safety recap November, 2025 (mention). December 2025.
# From construction apprentice to CIOB hub vice-chair. December 2025.
# Reusing empty properties in the built environment (mention). December 2025.
# Offices stand empty while Ireland faces housing shortages. New report poses solutions. December 2025.
# Construction and the autumn Budget 2025 (mention). November 2025.
# Helping avoid the skills gaps in construction. November 2025.
# Driving environmental professionalism across construction. November 2025.
# Understanding the role of quality materials. November 2025.
# CIOB launches first client survey. November 2025.
# Explaining the UK Government’s late payment reforms. November 2025.
# CIOB Technical Publication: Pre-construction services agreement. November 2025.
# The arc: identifying and engaging specialist historic environment professionals (update). November 2025.
# Building Safety recap October, 2025 (mention). November 2025.
# CIOB backs Code for Construction Product Information. November 2025.
# Retrofitting challenges in traditional and non-traditional buildings. October 2025.
# CIOB responds to Ireland budget announcement for 2025. October 2025.
# CIOB Scotland construction sector awards 2025. October 2025.
# Capacity Constraints in Construction: Rethinking the Business Environment. October 2025.
# The value of long-term relationships and early contractor involvement. October 2025.
# Is cultural safety the missing ingredient in building safety? September 2025.
# Celebrating construction across Ireland at the CIOB awards for 2025. September 2025.
# Sustainable Construction: Shifting the narrative. September 2025.
# Understanding the reforms to the Decent Homes Standard. September 2025.
# FMB and CIOB publish State of Trade survey findings 2025. September 2025.
# Launching CIOB Aspire. September 2025.
# How construction waste management in the UK is changing. August 2025.
# The Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and the proposed Part Z (menton). August 2025.
# Design and construction industry podcasts (mention). August 2025.
# Manufacturer competency codes, standards and frameworks (mention). August 2025.
# Competence is not a one-time achievement. August 2025.
# CIOB encourages young Scots receiving N5 results to build a career in construction. August 2025.
# Ola Obadara FCIOB appointed CIOB Vice President for 2025/26. August 2025.
# Guide to Products Critical to Safe Construction. August 2025.
# Promoting discussion, collaboration and community at the CIOB Member Forum 2025. July 2025
# CIOB report; a blueprint for SDGs and the built environment. July 2025
# RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer. July 2025
# The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan (mention). June 2025
# Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President. June 2025
# UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions. June 2025
# Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025. June 2025
# New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament. June 2025
# Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories. June 2025
# CIOB awards (update team award). May 2025
# CIOB responds to committee report criticising UK retrofit schemes. May 2025
# Design and construction industry podcasts (mention). May 2025
# CIOB awards. May 2025
# CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025. May 2025
# Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling, CIOB report shows. May 2025
# Digital technology, transformation and cybersecurity. May 2025
# CIOB and CORBON combine to elevate professional standards in Nigeria. April 2025
# CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition). April 2025
# Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication available in 3 languages. April 2025
# Spring Statement 2025 with reactions from industry. April 2025
# 600 million investment for 60,000 more skilled construction workers announced (mention). March 2025
# CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2024/2025. March 2025
# CIOB shares insights on attracting more young people to construction. March 2025
# CIOB student challenge inspires a new wave of Irish construction professionals. March 2025
# Lack of construction careers advice threatens housing targets, CIOB warns. March 2025
# UN SDGs provide blueprint for constructions sustainability efforts. March 2025
# Institute of Roofing members welcomed into CIOB. February 2025
# Reactions to the government response to the Grenfell inquiry final report. February 2025
# Embodied Carbon in the Built Environment (repost). February 2025
# Nominations sought for awards celebrating construction excellence in Ireland and Northern Ireland. February 2025
# CIOB Northern Ireland inspires next generation of construction talent. February 2025
# Practical steps that can be undertaken in the Management of Contractors to discharge the relevant CDM 2015 duties. January 2025
# CIOB Art of Building 2024 judges choice winner‎. January 2025
# CIOB Art of Building 2024 public choice winner. January 2025
# CIOB Construction Manager of the Year award shortlist revealed. January 2025
# Caroline Gumble to step down as CIOB CEO in 2025 after transformative tenure. January 2025
# CIOB photographic competition public vote. January 2025
# CIOB photographic competition final images revealed. December 2024
# Principal Contractor Competency Certification Scheme. December 2024
# CIOB launches global mental health survey. December 2024
# Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication. (repost) November 2024
# New homebuilding skills hub launch and industry response. November 2024
# Quality Planning for Micro and Small to Medium Sized Enterprises (repost and tweak). November 2024
# CIOB Ireland launches manifesto for 2024 General Election. November 2024
# Embodied Carbon in the Built Environment. November 2024
# Reactions to the Autumn Budget announcement. October 2024
# Innovative Silica Safety Toolkit Receives Funding Boost in Memory of Construction Visionary. October 2024.
# CIOB signs up to Green Skills At Cop campaign. October 2024.
# CIOB Art of Building photo contest 2024. October 2024.
# CIOB reveals worrying landscape for construction SMEs in Wales. October 2024.
# Digital series on the role of construction in tackling the biodiversity crisis. October 2024.
# A Better Hiring Toolkit for construction (mention). October 2024.
# Ireland budget announcement 2025: CIOB responds. October 2024.
# Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication (repost). September 2024
# Impact of digital technology on productivity in construction. September 2024
# CIOB and MMC Ireland announce strategic partnership. September 2024
# Industry responds to the final Grenfell inquiry report. September 2024
# CIOB Podcast: 21st Century Construction. September 2024
# CIAT collaborates with CIOB, CIfA, Icon to launch The Arc. August 2024
# Making Diversity and Inclusion easy for SMEs‎.August 2024
# CIOB issue statement in response to riots. August 2024
# CIOB announces sustainability champion Saul Humphrey as vice president for 2024 2025. August 2024
# Guide to Construction Quality (Site Production and Assembly). August 2024
# CIOB's insight into the new Labour government ministers. August 2024
# Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication. July 2024
# Industry reacts to first labour government King's speech in fifteen years. July 2024
# CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical information sheet. July 2024
# Construction industry reactions to the election result. July 2024
# Sustainable Development Goals must be focus for construction says CIOB President. June 2024
# New playbook on AI in construction published by CIOB. June 2024
# Principal Contractor Competency Certification Scheme PCCCS. June 2024
# CIOB Awards. (2025 update). June 2024
# The construction industry and the general election (mention). June 2024
# CIOB launches pre-election manifesto. May 2024
# Retrofit experts highlight critical actions Scottish Government must take to reach net-zero targets. May 2024
# Digital construction awards. 2024 shortlists. May 2024
# Digital Construction Awards 2023 Winners. May 2024
# Digital Construction Awards 2022 Winners. May 2024
# CIOB announces new trustees for 2024. May 2024
# Homeowners fear cost-of-living crisis will derail home improvement plans. May 2024
# Global Student Challenge 2024. April 2024
# Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold. April 2024
# Built environment project and programme management codes of practice. April 2024
# Code of Practice for Project Management for the Built Environment, 6th edition. April 2024
# Code of Practice for Programme Management in the Built Environment. Second edition. April 2024
# CIOB awards ceremony 2024. April 2024
# Barriers and benefits of MMC for Irish housing. April 2024.
# CIOB Client Guide. March 2024
# Employing People with Criminal Convictions in Construction. March 2024
# The reluctance of construction to hire people with criminal convictions revealed. March 2024
# Industry responds to the 2024 Spring Budget announcement. March 2024
# CIOB responds to the 2024 Spring Budget announcement. March 2024
# Building conservation; meaning, understanding and implementation (repost). February 2024
# CIOB comment on Biodiversity Net Gain legislation. February 2024
# CIOB joins forces to urge Government to regulate embodied carbon. February 2024
# The Paul Dockerill Award. February 2024
# Collaboration and challenge. January 2024
# Duty holders according to the Building Regulations Amendment 2023. January 2024
# What the Building Safety Act 2022 means for construction clients.January 2024
# Competence framework for project managers in the built environment launched (mention). January 2024
# Winners of world’s largest built environment photography competition 2023. January 2023.
# Art of Building 2023, vote for the finalists. December 2023.
# Rebecca Lovelace of Building People and CIOB EDI Individual Award Winner 2022 (CIOB mention). December 2023.
# CIOB Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Awards. December 2023.
# Finalists for 2024 CIOB Awards revealed. December 2023.
# The impact of pandemic and new legislation on academy training courses. December 2023.
# 2023 CIOB photography competition public choice award shortlist. December 2023.
# 2023 HSE data on workplace injuries and ill health with industry response‎ (CIOB section). November 2023.
# CIOB responds to the latest HSE data on workplace injuries, ill health and fatalities. November 2023.
# CIOB comments on the Chancellor's Autumn Budget. November 2023.
# 2023 Autumn Statement in brief with reactions (CIOB mention). November 2023.
# Building Safety Act Awareness course launched. November 2023
# Digital Transformation for SMEs: Unlocking the Benefits. November 2023
# CIOB energy efficiency survey. October 2023
# CIOB Ireland responds to Budget 2024. October 2023
# CIOB Art of Building photo contest 2023. October 2023
# Industry reaction to scaling back of HS2 (mention). October 2023
# CIOB social value report 2023. October 2023
# Guide to sustainability in the built environment. October 2023
# Guest editor, Phil Henry (mention). October 2023
# Industry responds to Prime Ministers Net Zero policy announcement. September 2023
# CIOB responds to net zero scaling back. September 2023
# 2023 CIOB Awards Scotland. September 2023
# Construction industry statements and responses to RAAC crisis (CIOB mention). September 2023
# CIOB statement on Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete‎. September 2023.
# CIOB Building Performance and Evaluation Guide (repost). September 2023.
# A Guide to Managing Safety Critical Elements in Building Construction (repost). September 2023.
# CIOB aims to help ex-offenders build a career in construction. September 2023.
# Help to Fix loan would drive retrofitting says CIOB. August 2023.
# CIOB welcomes new Vice President for 2025. August 2023.
# Top areas every professional needs to do to improve fire safety. August 2023
# Decision on second staircases, Michael Gove. July 2023.
# CIOB comments on Shortage Occupation List. July 2023
# Introduction to Facilities Management for Project Managers in the Built Environment. July 2023
# CIOB People, PPE that fits campaign. July 2023
# A sustainable future for Liverpool. July 2023
# Diversity and inclusion; free course from the CIOB Academy. July 2023
# New CIOB President calls for greater collaboration across construction, education and policy makers. June 2023
# New CIOB Technical Membership, TechCIOB grade aimed at technical experts. June 2023
# Search resumes for coveted CIOB Awards entries. June 2023
# Building Up Ireland: professional insights from the construction sector in 2023. June 2023
# Retrofitting plan for Scotland. May 2023
# CIOB Awards (updated postponement). May 2023
# CIOB Awards 2023 - Search begins for construction's leading lights (updated postponement). May 2023
# Embrace social value or get left behind warns CIOB. May 2023
# Universitas Indonesia win CIOB Global Student Challenge 2023. April 2023
# Revealing the real face of construction. April 2023
# Creation of Housing Minister for Scotland welcomed by CIOB. March2023
# A Guide to Managing Safety Critical Elements in Building Construction. March 2023
# CIOB reveals 2023 Global Student Challenge finalists‎. March 2023
# CIOB supports Scottish charter on construction quality. March 2023
# 2023 Spring Budget summary and industry response. March 2023
# CIOB launches digital resources for construction clients. March 2023
# CIOB Art of Building exhibition opens in China. February 2023
# Digital Construction Awards. February 2023
# CIOB five-year plan. January 2022
# (Enter the) Digital Construction Awards 2023. January 2022
# CIOB Art of Building photo contest 2022 winners. January 2022
# CIOB Building Performance and Evaluation Guide. January 2023
# CIOB Awards 2023 - Search begins for construction's leading lights. January 2023
# CIOB Global Student Challenge 2023. January 2023
# CIOB holds the Art of Building photo contest 2022. December 2022
# CIOB Academy publication, Quality planning for micro and SMEs. December 2022
# CIOB proposes stamp duty deferral on fixer uppers in RoI and NI. December 2022
# CIOB appoints new Vice President for 2022. November 2022
# Inaugural equality, diversity & inclusion conference. November 2022
# Chancellor's 2022 Autumn statement industry response. (joint mention) November 2022
# What are post-nominals ? November 2022
# CIOB at the party conferences 2022‎. November 2022
# CIOB tomorrow leaders community. November 2022
# CIOB Academy course, UN Sustainable Development Goals. October 2022
# CIOB Comment as Rishi Sunak becomes new Prime Minister. October 2022
# CIOB holds the Art of Building photo contest 2022. October 2022
# Scottish construction celebrated at CIOB Awards. October 2022
# Diversity & Inclusion Charter receives 100th signature. October 2022
# CIOB awards (Updated for 2022 event). September 2022
# CIOB Ireland responds to Budget 2023. September 2022
# CIOB reaction to September 2022 mini budget. September 2022
# Industry responds to Liz Truss as new Prime Minister. Septeber 2022
# Lessons learnt during Covid-19 pandemic leave lasting legacy. August 2022
# Finalists for 2022 CIOB Awards revealed. August 2022
# CIOB's response to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill. August 2022
# Three year equity, diversity and inclusion action plan. August 2022
# CIOB Managing Temporary Works Technical Information Sheet‎. July 2022
# CIOB Smoke Control Management Technical Information Sheet‎. July 2022
# CIOB Logistics Technical Information Sheet‎. July 2022
# CIOB Academy. July 2022 (updated)
# Construction industry bodies set out shared vision for the built environment. Academy. July 2022
# New CIOB President for 2022. June 2022.
# Sixth edition of the Code of Practice for Project Management. June 2022
# The Platinum Jubilee and Royal Charters. June 2022
# Anti-Slavery Commissioner say construction workers still at risk of exploitation. May 2022
# Buildings client group (BCG). April 2022 ‎
# CIOB awards. April 2022.
# The Construction Innovation and Quality Scholarship. April 2022
# Safer Buildings Conference. February 2022.
# CIOB accepted onto register of end-point assessment organisations. February 2022.
# CIOB strengthens governance structure with new Chair role. February 2022.
# The impact of silicosis on the construction industry. January 2022.
# Charter for diversity and inclusion in construction and special report launched by CIOB. November 2021.
# CIOB holds net zero event with industry experts and UK Government. November 2021.
# CIOB Global Student Challenge 2022. November 2021.
# CIOB response to the Autumn Budget and Spending Review 2021. October 2021.
# CIOB Ireland responds to Budget 2022. October 2021.
# Skyscrapers, staircases and optical illusions - the Art of Building is back. October 2021.
# Meeting the demand for housing in the UK. September 2021.
# CIOB responds to Newsnight report - Trapped: the UK's building safety crisis. September 2021.
# CIOB responds to skills strategy for Northern Ireland. August 2021.
# CIOB responds to CITB mental health and wellbeing report. August 2021.
# CIOB Connect mobile app. August 2021.
# Diploma in Building Safety Management. July 2021
# CIOB reviews the Building Safety Bill. July 2021.
# Pyrite and mica redress issues in Dail Eireann. July 2021.
# Interview with Paloma Hermoso, Senior Project Manager CIOB MAPM, Baker Ruff Hannon. June 2021.
# Chartered builders and chartered construction managers receive official recognition in Northern Ireland public procurement. June 2021.
# CIOB Global Student Challenge 2021 finalists. May 2021.
# Annual construction awards introduce two new categories. April 2021.
# Irish construction may struggle to meet demands. April 2021.
# Future Buildings Standard shortcomings raised. April 2021.
# Investors In People award CIOB silver accreditation. April 2021.
# Virtual reality construction experience for students. March 2021.
# January 2021 construction output figures. March 2021.
# Successor activity. February 2021.
# Stress test. February 2021.
# Start-finish logic. February 2021.
# Start-start logic. February 2021.
# Rescheduling. February 2021.
# Standard project. February 2021.
# Progress date. February 2021.
# Predecessor activity. February 2021.
# Finish-start logic. February 2021.
# CIOB Planning Protocol 2021. February 2021.
# CIOB conservation scheme welcomes retrofit roles. February 2021.
# December 2020 GDP figures show construction vulnerable. February 2021.
# New Homes Quality Board. February 2021.
# CIOB Adapt and Thrive conference 2021. February 2021.
# Protecting tenants and leaseholders from unsafe cladding. February 2021.
# Health performance indicators in the built environment. January 2021.
# Construction quality management guide. January 2021.
# Fire safety certification from CIOB. January 2021.
# CIOB responds to Sixth Carbon Budget. December 2020.
# Golden Thread report published by CIOB and i3PT. December 2020.
# CIOB 2020 CMYA and Rising Stars Announced. November 2020.
# CIOB Global Student Challenge 2021. November 2020.
# CIOB building conservation courses receive English Heritage endorsement. November 2020.
# Leading built environment bodies call for sprinklers in all schools. October 2020.
# CIOB holds the Art of Building photo contest. October 2020.
# CIOB reacts to 2020 Winter Economy Plan. September 2020.
# Finalists announced for CIOB Rising Star Award 2020. August 2020.
# Government urged to include home energy retrofits in Industrial Strategy. August 2020.
# CIOB president sees change ahead. June 2020.
# UK BIM Alliance and CIOB join forces. June 2020.
# Construction sites urged to integrate test and trace. June 2020.
# Understanding mental health in the built environment. May 2020.
# Quality policy. May 2020
# The CIOB welcomes assurance of Exchequer-funded capital projects in Ireland. Apr 2020
# Northern Ireland construction output Q4 2019. Apr 2020
# BEIS Reforming Regulation Initiative. Apr 2020
# Proposed changes: MHCLG consultation on house building statistics. Apr 2020
# CIOB urges construction industry to share PPE with healthcare providers. Mar 2020
# Construction output and GDP for quarter 4 2019. Feb 2020
# Auction theory. July 2019
# CIOB quality management code. Sep 2019
# CIOB response to 'Building a Safer Future' consultation. Aug 2019
# CIOB Value of Construction: Scotland report. Jun 2019
# Time and cost management contract suite. May 2019
# What does the Northern Powerhouse mean for us?. May 2019
# Invest in getting estimates right. Apr 2019
# Modern slavery in the construction sector. Apr 2019
# Balance for Better: Why lack of diversity is an issue for everyone. Mar 2019
# Research and development tax credits. Feb 2019
# Combined action needed to tackle severe skills shortages. Feb 2019
# The Role of Security in the Construction Industry. Feb 2019
# Development schedule. Jan 2019
# Improving quality in the built environment. Dec 2018
# CIOB Chief Executive announces retirement. Nov 2018
# Construction quality management course. Sep 2018
# Sustainable construction and development online course. Aug 2018
# Aircrete blocks. Jul 2018
# Construction and the Modern Slavery Act. May 2018
# Building in Quality: Joint Memorandum of Understanding. Mar 2018
# Guide to good practice in the management of time in major projects: Dynamic time modelling. Feb 2018
# CIOB and Stronger Together. Oct 2017
# CIOB Building Conservation Certification Scheme. Jun 2017
# CIOB Commission of Past Presidents. Jun 2017
# CIOB 2017 manifesto. May 2017
# Think Construction toolkit. May 2017
# CIOB join Build UK. Mar 2017
# Modern slavery toolkit. Feb 2017
# One CIOB. Jan 2017
# All-in rates. Dec 2016
# Approved contractor. Dec 2016
# Code of Estimating Practice. Dec 2016
# Consortium. Dec 2016
# Head office overheads. Dec 2016
# Mark-up. Dec 2016
# Masterminds of Construction. Dec 2016
# New code of estimating practice. Dec 2016
# Project overheads. Dec 2016
# Social mobility and construction: Building routes to opportunity. Dec 2016
# Tender works programme. Dec 2016
# CIOB academy. Nov 2016
# Code of practice for programme management. Sep 2016
# Code of practice for project management. Sep 2016
# The changing form of building worldwide 1984. Sep 2016
# Building a fairer system: Tackling modern day slavery. Jul 2016
# CIOB International innovation and research awards 2016. Jul 2016
# Craft your Future. May 2016
# Productivity in construction: Creating a framework for the industry to thrive. May 2016
# Exploring the impact of the ageing population on the workforce and built environment. Dec 2015
# The effectiveness of current smart home technologies to improve energy efficiency. Sep 2015
# 3D MOVE: Mobile Immersive Visualisation Environment. May 2015
# BIM Development for the Crossrail Farringdon Station. May 2015
# BIM-Hub, Educating Future Built Environment Professionals to Work in BIM Environment. May 2015
# Comparing the fit between BREEAM assessment and design processes. May 2015
# Construction efficiency: A tale of two developed countries. May 2015
# Does NEC3 aid collaboration in construction?. May 2015
# Effect of safety investments on safety performance of building projects. May 2015
# Icynene spray foam insulation. May 2015
# Improving the Safety of Single Carriageways in Northern Ireland. May 2015
# Inspiring the future initiative for schools. May 2015
# Japanese construction contractors in the international market. May 2015
# Modelling building construction durations in Nigeria. May 2015
# Oxypod. May 2015
# Q-Bot. May 2015
# Risk identification and allocation of Singapore construction joint venture projects with developing countries. May 2015
# Site Reconnaissance App SRAp. May 2015
# The history of human resource management. May 2015
# UtterBerry intelligent wireless sensor system. May 2015
# Bowen Jenkins Legacy Research Fund. Mar 2015
# Flagship first project for CPC 2013. Feb 2015
# Biomimicry. Mar 2014
# Chaos theory. Mar 2014
# Complexity theory. Mar 2014
# Fuzzy logic. Mar 2014
# Construction site personnel. Nov 2013
# Quality control for construction works. Nov 2013
# Site personnel. Nov 2013
# Client commissioning of construction works. Oct 2013
# Commissioning v testing. Oct 2013
# Computers in building design. Oct 2013
# Computers in construction tendering. Oct 2013
# Computers in the management of construction. Oct 2013
# Critical path method CPM. Oct 2013
# Ex gratis payment. Oct 2013
# Gantt chart. Oct 2013
# Overcoming difficulties in construction value management. Oct 2013
# Project manager's report for building design and construction. Oct 2013
# Scheduling construction activities. Oct 2013
# Productivity in building design and construction. Sep 2013
# Cost control in building design and construction. Sep 2013
# Design management plan. Sep 2013
# Site selection and acquisition for construction. Sep 2013
# Value engineering in building design and construction. Sep 2013
# Value in building design and construction. Sep 2013
# Value management techniques for building design and construction. Sep 2013
# Complex projects contract CPC 2013. Aug 2013
# Construction organisation design. Aug 2013
# Types of construction organisations. Aug 2013
# Time and cost management contract TCM15. Apr 2013
# Risk management. Nov 2011
# Value management in building design and construction. Nov 2011

--[[User:CIOB|CIOB]]

= CIOB reaction to September 2022 mini budget =

[[Category:DCN_Organisation]] [[Category:Education]] [[Category:Organisations]]

News from the web

2026-09-02T05:47:10Z

Designing Buildings:

Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.

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[[Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026|National Planning Policy Framework]]

[[File:Nppf 2026 350.jpg|link=Understanding_the_changes_to_the_National_Planning_Policy_Framework_2026]]

Understanding the 2026 changes.

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[[Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities|ECA's public affairs priorities]]

[[File:ECA_logo_blue_cropped_350.jpg|link=Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities]]

Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.

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[[Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities|Domestic projects in Wales]]

[[File:Welsh_Gov-350.jpg|link=Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities]]

Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.

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[[Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham|Where performance meets practice]]

[[File:Ukcw_b_350.jpg|link=Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham]]

The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.

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[[CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform|NPPF]]

[[File:CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform_350.jpg|link=CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform]]

CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

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[[Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network|Leaders in Learning for Practice Network]]

[[File:IHBC_logo_350.png|link=Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network]]

Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

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[[The_importance_of_early_engagement|The importance of early engagement]]

[[File:The_importance_of_early_engagement_350.jpg|link=The_importance_of_early_engagement]]

Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.

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[[Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers|Mayors are to be given planning call in powers]]

[[File:10_Downing_Street_350.jpg|link=Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers]]

Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.

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[[The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times|Sixty years in practice]]

[[File:William_butterfield_350.jpg|link=The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times]]

The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

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[[Building_the_future_workforce|Building the future workforce]]

[[File:MindTheGap350.jpg|link=Building_the_future_workforce]]

Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.

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[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel Building Safety Regulator, 19 August]

[[File:Gill_Kernick_350.jpg|link=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel]]

Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.

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[[Connecting_knowledge,_technology_and_conservation:_Building_competence_for_the_future_of_built_heritage|Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation]]

[[File:Cotac_learning_documents_350.jpg|link=Connecting_knowledge,_technology_and_conservation:_Building_competence_for_the_future_of_built_heritage]]

Building competence for the future of built heritage.

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[[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]]

Understanding the changes to the National Planning Policy Framework 2026

2026-09-02T05:44:18Z

Designing Buildings:

{|
| [[File:Nppf 2026.jpg|link=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framework.pdf]]
|-
| In August 2026, the UK Government published its latest iteration of the [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framework.pdf National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)], which informs decision-making on development proposals.
|}

Long before this Government came into power, there was criticism of how loose the wording of the NPPF has been and how open to interpretation the rules contained within are. This round of changes represents the second set of ‘major’ alterations since 2024, geared towards making development faster, simpler and more rules-based.

[https://www.ciob.org/media/3619/download CIOB responded] to the consultation that preceded these changes in December 2025. Our response, which can be found [https://www.ciob.org/media/3619/download here], highlighted the need for greater clarity on some of the proposed wording and assurances that, while speed of development is important, this does not come at the expense of other regulatory regimes such as those presided over by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR).

Some of our other recommendations included:

* Calling for clarification on the role of the Secretary of State to intervene in plan making where a local planning authority fails to make adequate progress. While CIOB supported strategic intervention to ensure relevant, sufficient and up-to-date local plans are in place, we felt greater detail was needed on the circumstances in which intervention would take place.
* We recommended the NPPF includes further detail in relation to large scale residential developments. This would be expressed by establishing a clear skills and materials plan to demonstrate how new towns or strategic developments will be delivered, prioritising locally sourced skills and materials where possible.
* Strengthening the role of SMEs in meeting housing targets by including an increased quota for sites to be provided by SME housebuilders in local plans. Our recommendations here focused on the size of the housebuilder rather than directly prescribing the size of the site. We have also advocated for quotas in local plans to prescribe that SME housebuilders are given priority if they can demonstrate a local connection to the plan-making area.
* Strengthening wording around climate policies such as proposed policy CC1: Planning for climate change, specifically replacing language such as ‘should’ with ‘must’ as well as recommending that Government amends wording to encourage local authorities to go further and set more ambitious water efficiency standards, should they not conflict with other local plan policies.
* Strongly supporting the intention to enshrine a specific numerical target for M4(2) standard adaptable housing that can be measured against delivery.

Looking at the resulting NPPF, we are pleased to see the revised version considers some of CIOB’s recommendations as well as the intentions we raised throughout our response to create a more streamlined and coordinated planning system.

We were also pleased to see further commitments to give SME housebuilders a way into the development market through proposals for local planning authorities to allocate land to accommodate 10% of their housing requitement on sites between 1 and 2.5 hectares.

The built environment sector has, by and large, reacted positively to the changes set out in the new NPPF. In its [https://www.savills.co.uk/insight-and-opinion/savills-news/393855/savills-provides-initial-thoughts-on-new-national-planning-policy-framework reaction] Savills made it clear the new NPPF was welcomed, stating “the revised Framework introduces a clearer distinction between policies for plan-making and those for decision-making, alongside stronger support for housing, economic growth and development in sustainable locations”.

Elsewhere, organisations like Landmark Chambers and BusinessLDN have also welcomed the changes, calling them a “significant policy shift in favour of meeting the government’s target of 1.5 million homes” and “welcome efforts to streamline the planning system”.

We have set out a list below of some of the main changes to the NPPF that will most impact housing delivery. This is by no means an exhaustive list of all changes.

* A wider use of the “default yes” principle for development around well-connected stations. Including an expansion of the existing presumption in favour of suitably located development to include the top 80 Travel to Work Areas up from the previous top 60.
* Restructuring the NPPF to provide a clearer distinction between plan-making policies and decision-making policies. This is intended to bring greater structure to the NPPF and more certainty on decision-making outcomes.
* Emphasis on densification and effective use of land including greater importance on extensions, upward development, infill and redevelopment rather than additional plots for units on residential sites.
* Introducing a specific site category for strategic sites for developments of 1,500 homes or more such as new settlements, new urban quarters or significant extensions to existing settlements.
* Greater standardisation and reducing variation on local plan policies.
* Mandating that at least 40% of new housing within a local plan area meets M4(2) accessibility standards.
* The introduction of Policy HO13 which emphasises the need to build out homes on land with planning permission ‘without unnecessary delay’. This policy does not prescribe a specific build out period but allows for consideration of whether to impose a planning condition requiring that development begins within a timescale shorter than the statutory default period.

Whilst it is clear from both industry reaction, and the positive changes made in this revision of the NPPF, that the intention of the changes is to make development easier and more consistent, time will tell if this has a positive impact on delivery numbers.

Over the last 10 years there have been numerous changes or alterations to the NPPF. We encourage government to allow for enough time to understand whether the changes made in this most recent edition work in practice before once again trying to change the planning system.

-----
This article originally appeared on the [https://www.ciob.org/blog/understanding-the%C2%A0changes-to-the%C2%A0national-planning-policy-framework%C2%A02026 CIOB website] on 1 September 2026. It was written by David Parry, CIOB's Senior Policy & Public Affairs Lead.

--[[User:CIOB|CIOB]]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* A guide to the updated National Planning Policy Framework.
* CIAT briefing on NPPF and planning reform.
* Consultation on proposed reforms to NPPF and other changes to the planning system.
* Killian Pretty Review.
* Local plan.
* Localism Act.
* National Planning Framework.
* National Planning Practice Guidance.
* NPPF.
* NPPF inquiry.
* Planning legislation.
* Planning permission.
* Planning policy replaced by the NPPF.

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:News]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Policy]]

File:Nppf 2026.jpg

2026-09-02T05:43:24Z

Designing Buildings: source: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framework.pdf

source: [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framework.pdf https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framework.pdf]

File:Nppf 2026 350.jpg

2026-09-02T05:43:03Z

Designing Buildings: source: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framework.pdf

CIAT briefing on NPPF and planning reform

2026-09-02T05:39:46Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform.png|link=https://architecturaltechnology.com/resource/ciat-briefing-on-nppf-and-planning-reform.html]]

On 26 August 2026, The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) published a new briefing for members and affiliates summarising the latest reforms to England’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and wider planning system.

The revised NPPF, which applies from 17 August 2026, has been substantially redrafted and introduces clearer distinctions between plan-making and decision-making policies, alongside new guidance and methodologies for areas including housing, Green Belt assessments and flood management.

The briefing examines the major policy changes and their implications for planning and development, including a strengthened presumption in favour of sustainable development, greater support for housing delivery and urban densification, revised Green Belt policies, and stronger consideration of climate change, environmental quality, infrastructure and sustainable transport. It also covers reforms to statutory consultees, planning fees, planning committees and the Housing Delivery Test, highlighting changes that could affect how applications are prepared and determined.

For architectural technology professionals working on projects in England, the briefing provides a useful overview of changes that are already affecting planning decision-making. CIAT encourages members and affiliates to familiarise themselves with the new NPPF and avoid relying on previous versions when preparing applications.

[https://architecturaltechnology.com/resource/ciat-briefing-on-nppf-and-planning-reform.html Download the full briefing here] to understand the reforms in more detail and consider what they mean for current and future projects.

-----
--[[User:CIAT|CIAT]]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* A guide to the updated National Planning Policy Framework.
* Consultation on proposed reforms to NPPF and other changes to the planning system.
* Killian Pretty Review.
* Local plan.
* Localism Act.
* National Planning Framework.
* National Planning Practice Guidance.
* NPPF.
* NPPF inquiry.
* Planning legislation.
* Planning permission.
* Planning policy replaced by the NPPF.
* Understanding the changes to the National Planning Policy Framework 2026.

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:Planning_permission]]

Understanding the changes to the National Planning Policy Framework 2026

2026-09-02T05:38:31Z

Designing Buildings: Created page with "In August 2026, the UK Government published its latest iteration of the [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framewor..."

In August 2026, the UK Government published its latest iteration of the [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a8334c03bd75b81e2329ac4/National_Planning_Policy_Framework.pdf National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)], which informs decision-making on development proposals.

Long before this Government came into power, there was criticism of how loose the wording of the NPPF has been and how open to interpretation the rules contained within are. This round of changes represents the second set of ‘major’ alterations since 2024, geared towards making development faster, simpler and more rules-based.

[https://www.ciob.org/media/3619/download CIOB responded] to the consultation that preceded these changes in December 2025. Our response, which can be found [https://www.ciob.org/media/3619/download here], highlighted the need for greater clarity on some of the proposed wording and assurances that, while speed of development is important, this does not come at the expense of other regulatory regimes such as those presided over by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR).

Some of our other recommendations included:

* Calling for clarification on the role of the Secretary of State to intervene in plan making where a local planning authority fails to make adequate progress. While CIOB supported strategic intervention to ensure relevant, sufficient and up-to-date local plans are in place, we felt greater detail was needed on the circumstances in which intervention would take place.
* We recommended the NPPF includes further detail in relation to large scale residential developments. This would be expressed by establishing a clear skills and materials plan to demonstrate how new towns or strategic developments will be delivered, prioritising locally sourced skills and materials where possible.
* Strengthening the role of SMEs in meeting housing targets by including an increased quota for sites to be provided by SME housebuilders in local plans. Our recommendations here focused on the size of the housebuilder rather than directly prescribing the size of the site. We have also advocated for quotas in local plans to prescribe that SME housebuilders are given priority if they can demonstrate a local connection to the plan-making area.
* Strengthening wording around climate policies such as proposed policy CC1: Planning for climate change, specifically replacing language such as ‘should’ with ‘must’ as well as recommending that Government amends wording to encourage local authorities to go further and set more ambitious water efficiency standards, should they not conflict with other local plan policies.
* Strongly supporting the intention to enshrine a specific numerical target for M4(2) standard adaptable housing that can be measured against delivery.

Looking at the resulting NPPF, we are pleased to see the revised version considers some of CIOB’s recommendations as well as the intentions we raised throughout our response to create a more streamlined and coordinated planning system.

We were also pleased to see further commitments to give SME housebuilders a way into the development market through proposals for local planning authorities to allocate land to accommodate 10% of their housing requitement on sites between 1 and 2.5 hectares.

The built environment sector has, by and large, reacted positively to the changes set out in the new NPPF. In its [https://www.savills.co.uk/insight-and-opinion/savills-news/393855/savills-provides-initial-thoughts-on-new-national-planning-policy-framework reaction] Savills made it clear the new NPPF was welcomed, stating “the revised Framework introduces a clearer distinction between policies for plan-making and those for decision-making, alongside stronger support for housing, economic growth and development in sustainable locations”.

Elsewhere, organisations like Landmark Chambers and BusinessLDN have also welcomed the changes, calling them a “significant policy shift in favour of meeting the government’s target of 1.5 million homes” and “welcome efforts to streamline the planning system”.

We have set out a list below of some of the main changes to the NPPF that will most impact housing delivery. This is by no means an exhaustive list of all changes.

* A wider use of the “default yes” principle for development around well-connected stations. Including an expansion of the existing presumption in favour of suitably located development to include the top 80 Travel to Work Areas up from the previous top 60.
* Restructuring the NPPF to provide a clearer distinction between plan-making policies and decision-making policies. This is intended to bring greater structure to the NPPF and more certainty on decision-making outcomes.
* Emphasis on densification and effective use of land including greater importance on extensions, upward development, infill and redevelopment rather than additional plots for units on residential sites.
* Introducing a specific site category for strategic sites for developments of 1,500 homes or more such as new settlements, new urban quarters or significant extensions to existing settlements.
* Greater standardisation and reducing variation on local plan policies.
* Mandating that at least 40% of new housing within a local plan area meets M4(2) accessibility standards.
* The introduction of Policy HO13 which emphasises the need to build out homes on land with planning permission ‘without unnecessary delay’. This policy does not prescribe a specific build out period but allows for consideration of whether to impose a planning condition requiring that development begins within a timescale shorter than the statutory default period.

Whilst it is clear from both industry reaction, and the positive changes made in this revision of the NPPF, that the intention of the changes is to make development easier and more consistent, time will tell if this has a positive impact on delivery numbers.

Over the last 10 years there have been numerous changes or alterations to the NPPF. We encourage government to allow for enough time to understand whether the changes made in this most recent edition work in practice before once again trying to change the planning system.

For more information or for views on CIOB’s proposals to improve housing delivery please contact [mailto:policy@ciob.org.uk policy@ciob.org.uk].

-----
This article originally appeared on the [https://www.ciob.org/blog/understanding-the%C2%A0changes-to-the%C2%A0national-planning-policy-framework%C2%A02026 CIOB website] on 1 September 2026. It was written by David Parry, CIOB's Senior Policy & Public Affairs Lead.

--[[User:CIOB|CIOB]]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:News]] [[Category:Planning_permission]] [[Category:Policy]]

Rent a Mobile Crushing Plant or Buy It A Cost-Effective Analysis Using Latin American Prices

2026-09-02T05:24:41Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Mobile_Stone_Crusher_for_Mining_Industry.jpg|link=File:Mobile_Stone_Crusher_for_Mining_Industry.jpg]]

== Introduction ==

Mobile crushing plants are used in quarrying, mining, construction, demolition and infrastructure projects to process rock, recycled construction materials and other mineral products close to their source or point of use. Their mobility can reduce the need to transport unprocessed material to a fixed processing facility and can allow crushing equipment to be relocated as extraction or construction activities progress.

For organisations requiring mobile crushing equipment, the choice between purchasing and renting is primarily a financial and operational decision. The appropriate option depends on factors including project duration, expected utilisation, production requirements, capital availability, financing costs, maintenance responsibilities, transport requirements, equipment availability and the expected residual value of purchased equipment. Prices vary substantially between countries and equipment specifications, so a financial assessment should use current local market data rather than relying on generalised regional price thresholds.

== Purchase and rental considerations ==

=== Purchasing mobile crushing equipment ===

Purchasing a mobile crushing plant requires a substantial initial investment but provides the owner with control over how and where the equipment is used. The capital cost varies according to the crusher type, capacity, feed size, chassis, automation, screening equipment and other plant configuration. Additional costs can include transport, commissioning, import duties and taxes, site preparation and financing.

Ownership also creates ongoing costs. These can include fuel or electricity, operators, routine maintenance, replacement of wear parts, major repairs, insurance, storage, transport between sites and eventual disposal or resale. Depreciation represents the allocation of an asset's depreciable cost over its useful economic life; it should not be treated as a direct cash cost in the same way as fuel or maintenance. The residual value of the equipment at the end of the analysis period should also be considered when calculating the economic cost of ownership.

The principal advantages of purchasing include unrestricted access to the equipment, greater control over scheduling and the ability to retain or resell the asset after a project has ended. Ownership can be particularly appropriate where equipment is expected to operate at a high utilisation rate over several projects or for an extended period.

=== Renting mobile crushing equipment ===

Renting avoids or reduces the initial capital requirement and can provide access to equipment for a defined period. Rental charges may include some maintenance and servicing, although the precise allocation of responsibilities varies between agreements. Operators should establish which costs are included and which remain their responsibility, particularly for fuel, wear parts, transportation, insurance, breakdowns and major repairs.

Rental can be advantageous for short-term or uncertain projects, where purchasing equipment would leave a large capital investment tied to an asset that may subsequently have limited use. It can also provide access to specialist equipment without requiring the organisation to retain and maintain the plant between projects.

The disadvantages can include higher cumulative costs where equipment is used continuously for long periods, restrictions on operating hours or locations, availability constraints and contractual charges for transport, damage or excess usage. Rental terms should therefore be assessed on the basis of the complete contract cost rather than the headline monthly rate.

== Comparing the total cost ==

A comparison between purchasing and renting should consider the total economic cost over the period for which the equipment is required. A simple comparison of purchase price with cumulative rental payments is insufficient because ownership includes financing, maintenance, operating, depreciation and resale considerations.

For a purchased machine, the analysis can include:

* Purchase and delivery costs.
* Financing costs and associated fees.
* Insurance and taxes.
* Fuel or electricity.
* Labour and operator costs.
* Routine servicing and maintenance.
* Wear parts and consumables.
* Major repairs and component replacement.
* Transport and mobilisation between sites.
* Storage when the equipment is not operating.
* Residual or resale value at the end of the assessment period.

For a rented machine, the analysis can include:

* Rental payments.
* Deposits and other contractual charges.
* Transport and mobilisation.
* Fuel or electricity.
* Labour and operator costs.
* Wear parts and consumables not included in the agreement.
* Insurance and other charges not included in the rental rate.
* Charges for excess operating hours or damage.
* Demobilisation costs.

The comparison should use the same operating assumptions for both alternatives. These should include expected production, operating hours, utilisation, fuel or energy consumption, maintenance requirements and project duration.

== Break-even analysis ==

The point at which purchasing becomes economically preferable to renting is not determined by a universal number of months. It depends on the relationship between the purchase cost, financing and ownership costs, rental charges, utilisation and residual value.

A simplified break-even calculation can compare the cumulative cost of renting with the net economic cost of ownership:

Net cost of ownership = purchase and acquisition costs + financing and operating costs − residual value

Cumulative rental cost = rental charges + additional rental-related costs

The break-even point occurs when the cumulative cost of renting becomes greater than the corresponding cost of ownership under the same operating assumptions. A more detailed discounted cash-flow analysis can account for the timing of payments and the opportunity cost of capital.

High utilisation generally improves the economic case for ownership because the capital cost is spread over a greater quantity of processed material and more operating hours. Conversely, low or uncertain utilisation can favour rental because the organisation avoids carrying the full cost of an underused asset.

== Operating and maintenance costs ==

The type and condition of the crusher can have a significant effect on operating costs. Jaw crushers are commonly used for primary crushing, while cone and impact crushers can be used for secondary or tertiary processing depending on the material and required product characteristics. Complete mobile crushing plants may also incorporate feeders, conveyors and screening equipment.

Fuel or electricity consumption is an important operating cost, particularly for equipment operating for long periods or in remote locations. Actual consumption depends on the crusher design, material characteristics, throughput, operating conditions and power system. Generalised percentage reductions in fuel consumption should therefore not be assumed without equipment-specific data.

Wear is another significant cost. Components such as jaw plates, blow bars, liners and screens are subject to abrasion and impact, with replacement intervals depending on the material being processed and the operating conditions. Rental agreements should be examined carefully to determine which wear components are included in the rental charge.

Mobile crushing can also reduce material-handling requirements where the equipment can be positioned close to the extraction or processing point. This can reduce haulage distances and associated costs, although the benefits depend on site layout, material flows, access and the cost of moving the crushing plant itself.

== Regional and project-specific factors ==

Equipment prices, rental rates, financing costs, import charges, taxes, transport costs and equipment availability vary between countries and individual projects. These differences can materially affect the economic comparison between ownership and rental.

Importing equipment can involve additional costs and lead times associated with shipping, customs clearance, inland transport, taxation and commissioning. Where equipment is required by a fixed project deadline, these factors may make locally available rental equipment economically attractive even where purchasing would have a lower long-term cost.

Financing conditions should also be considered. A purchase funded through borrowing may involve significant interest and other financing costs, while currency fluctuations can affect the cost of imported equipment or foreign-currency finance. The relevant financing rate should be incorporated into the project's cash-flow analysis rather than applying a single assumed interest-rate threshold.

Local availability of spare parts, technical support and maintenance personnel can also influence the effective cost of ownership. An inexpensive machine may have higher downtime or maintenance costs if critical components or technical expertise are difficult to obtain.

== Selecting between renting and purchasing ==

Renting may be appropriate where:

* The project is short-term or its duration is uncertain.
* Equipment utilisation is expected to be low or intermittent.
* Capital is constrained or required for other project activities.
* Specialist equipment is required for a particular project.
* Equipment availability and delivery time make purchasing impractical.
* The organisation wants to avoid retaining equipment between projects.

Purchasing may be appropriate where:

* The equipment is expected to operate at a high utilisation rate over several years.
* The organisation has a continuing requirement for the same type of crushing capacity.
* The expected residual value is significant.
* Ownership provides operational flexibility that would be restricted by a rental agreement.
* The organisation has the capital or financing capacity required for acquisition.
* The costs of owning and maintaining the equipment are lower than the equivalent long-term rental costs.

In some circumstances, alternatives such as used equipment, finance leasing, hire purchase or rent-to-own arrangements may provide a different balance between capital expenditure, ownership and operational flexibility. These options should be assessed using the same total-cost and cash-flow principles.

== Conclusion ==

The decision to rent or purchase a mobile crushing plant should be based on the specific economic and operational circumstances of the project. Project duration and utilisation are important factors, but they should be assessed alongside acquisition costs, financing, operating expenditure, maintenance, mobilisation, equipment availability and residual value.

A total-cost-of-ownership and cash-flow analysis provides a more reliable basis for comparison than a simple assessment of purchase price against monthly rental charges. Because equipment specifications, market prices and financing conditions vary considerably, there is no universal break-even period applicable to all mobile crushing projects.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Crusher Plants
* How Do Mobile Crushers Improve Mobility and Efficiency?
* Cost and Benefit Analysis of Investing in a Stone Crusher in a Quarry
* Aggregate
* What Sizes of Construction Aggregates Can the Crushing Plant Produce?
* The Role of Different Sizes of Aggregates in the Construction Industry
* How to Configure Aggregate Production Lines for Large-Scale Engineering Projects
* The logic of hybrid crushing systems relating to project scale and topography
* How Fine Crushing Mobile Stone Crushing Plants Improve Aggregate Quality?
* Application of Spray Dust Suppression Systems in Aggregate Projects

[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Climate Disclosure Platforms: Simplifying Climate Reporting for Businesses

2026-09-02T05:21:23Z

Designing Buildings: moved Australian Climate Disclosure Platform: Simplifying Climate Reporting for Businesses to Climate Disclosure Platforms: Simplifying Climate Reporting for Businesses

== Introduction ==

Climate disclosure is the process by which organisations report information about their greenhouse gas emissions, climate-related risks and opportunities, and the potential effects of climate change on their activities, strategy and financial position. It has become an increasingly important component of corporate governance, risk management and sustainability reporting.

Climate disclosure platforms are software systems designed to help organisations collect, organise, analyse and report climate-related information. They can bring together data from multiple operational and financial systems, support emissions calculations and climate-risk assessments, and assist with the preparation of disclosures against applicable reporting frameworks and regulatory requirements.

== Climate disclosure platforms ==

Climate disclosure requires organisations to collect information from a range of sources. This can include energy and fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, business travel, procurement, waste, water use, physical assets and supply-chain activities. The quality of the resulting disclosure depends on the completeness, consistency, traceability and accuracy of the underlying data.

Without appropriate systems, climate-related information may be maintained in separate spreadsheets or databases, creating difficulties in maintaining consistent methodologies and audit trails. A climate disclosure platform can provide a centralised environment in which data can be collected, validated, calculated and reported.

Common capabilities include:

* Centralised management of environmental and emissions data.
* Automated or semi-automated data collection.
* Data validation and quality controls.
* Greenhouse gas emissions calculations.
* Monitoring of environmental performance and targets.
* Climate-risk and scenario analysis.
* Reporting against relevant disclosure frameworks.
* Audit trails and supporting documentation.
* Dashboards and analytical tools.
* Integration with existing business and financial systems.

The specific requirements depend on the organisation, its activities, geographical scope and applicable reporting obligations. A platform is not, by itself, a substitute for appropriate accounting methodologies, governance, internal controls or professional judgement.

== Artificial intelligence and data engineering ==

Artificial intelligence (AI) and data engineering can support climate disclosure and other forms of corporate reporting when they are underpinned by reliable data and appropriate governance.

AI can be used for tasks such as identifying patterns in large datasets, classifying information, forecasting, anomaly detection, document analysis and selected forms of process automation. In climate reporting, these capabilities may assist with identifying missing or anomalous data, analysing trends, supporting scenario analysis and automating repetitive activities. AI outputs require appropriate validation because errors in source data, model assumptions or automated processing can affect the reliability of reported information.

Data engineering provides the infrastructure required to collect, transform, integrate, store and distribute data. It can connect information from different business systems and establish repeatable data pipelines. This is particularly important where climate information must be combined with operational, financial, procurement or asset data.

Effective data engineering can help organisations to:

* Establish consistent data structures.
* Improve data quality and traceability.
* Integrate information from multiple systems.
* Automate recurring data-processing tasks.
* Provide scalable infrastructure for analytics.
* Support real-time or near-real-time information where appropriate.
* Prepare data for AI and machine-learning applications.

The use of AI and data engineering does not eliminate the need for human oversight. Climate disclosures can have regulatory, financial and reputational consequences, making data governance, access controls, documentation, validation and accountability important components of the reporting process.

== Integrating climate reporting with wider business systems ==

Climate disclosure is increasingly connected with wider organisational processes rather than being treated solely as a sustainability function. Information used for climate reporting may originate in finance, procurement, facilities management, energy management, logistics, human resources and supply-chain systems.

Integrating these sources can reduce duplicated data entry and improve consistency between operational information and external disclosures. It can also allow organisations to use climate-related information for wider purposes, such as identifying energy-efficiency opportunities, assessing exposure to climate-related risks, evaluating supply-chain impacts and monitoring progress against environmental targets.

A well-designed reporting system should therefore consider data ownership, calculation methodologies, reporting boundaries, data quality, version control, security and auditability. Organisations also need processes for reviewing assumptions and methodologies when reporting requirements or organisational circumstances change.

== Climate disclosure frameworks and reporting requirements ==

The information required for climate disclosure varies according to the reporting framework, jurisdiction and type of organisation. International frameworks and standards have increasingly sought to establish consistent requirements for reporting climate-related risks, opportunities, governance, strategy, risk management, metrics and targets.

The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), for example, has developed sustainability disclosure standards that include requirements relating specifically to climate-related disclosures. Other frameworks and regulatory regimes may impose additional or different requirements, particularly in relation to greenhouse gas emissions, transition plans, environmental impacts and corporate sustainability reporting.

Organisations using climate disclosure platforms therefore need to ensure that the systems and methodologies they employ remain aligned with the reporting requirements applicable to them. Reporting software can assist with this process, but responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of published information remains with the reporting organisation.

== Conclusion ==

Climate disclosure platforms can provide a structured means of managing the data and processes required for climate-related reporting. Their effectiveness depends on the quality of the underlying data, the suitability of emissions and risk-assessment methodologies, and the governance processes surrounding their use.

The integration of climate reporting with data engineering and, where appropriate, artificial intelligence can reduce manual processing and provide organisations with more consistent and accessible information. However, technological systems should support rather than replace appropriate governance, verification, professional judgement and accountability.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Construction's sustainability reporting revolution
* Artificial intelligence in the construction industry
* The impact of artificial intelligence on the built environment
* Artificial intelligence for smarter, safer buildings
* How Data Engineering Services Are Transforming Businesses in 2024
* Sustainability related EU directives in 2024 and the building industry
* Copyright and Artificial Intelligence
* The world of generative AI

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

Climate Disclosure Platforms: Simplifying Climate Reporting for Businesses

2026-09-02T05:20:59Z

Designing Buildings:

RIBA plan of work

2026-09-01T07:48:29Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Riba_plan_of_work_2020.jpg]]

= What is the RIBA plan of work? =

The [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/riba-plan-of-work RIBA Plan of Work] is published by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). The latest version is also endorsed by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, the Construction Industry Council, the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, the Royal Society of Architects in Wales and the Royal Society of Ulster Architects.

It was originally launched in 1963 as a fold out sheet that illustrated the roles of participants in design and construction in a simple matrix format. The first detailed plan of work was published in 1964 (ref. Introduction, RIBA Plan of Work 2007).

= How is the RIBA plan of work structured? =

Split into a number of key project stages, the RIBA Plan of Work provides a shared framework for design and construction that offers both a process map and a management tool. Whilst it has never been clear that architects actually follow the detail of the plan in their day to day activities, the work stages have been used as a means of designating stage payments and identifying team members' responsibilities when assessing insurance liabilities, and they commonly appear in contracts and appointment documents.

The Plan of Work has evolved through its history to reflect the increasing complexity of projects, to incorporate increasing and changing regulatory requirements and to reflect the demands of industry and government reports criticising the industry. It has moved from a simple matrix representing just the traditional procurement route, to include multiple procurement routes, more diverse roles, multi-disciplinary teams, government gateways and stages that take place before and after design and construction. It is supported by other RIBA publications such as the RIBA Job Book, and supplements, such as a sustainability overlay and a green overlay.

= What work stages does the latest RIBA plan of work include? =

The latest version of the RIBA plan of work, published in 2020, reflects increasing requirements for sustainability and Building Information Modelling (BIM) and remains current.

In addition, the work stages were re-structured and re-named:

* 0 - Strategic definition.
* 1 - Preparation and briefing.
* 2 - Concept design.
* 3 - Spatial coordination.
* 4 - Technical design.
* 5 - Manufacturing and construction.
* 6 - Handover.
* 7 - Use.

= Overlays to the RIBA plan of work =

A number of overlays have been published to provide detailed guidance on specific design and built environment considerations that can be implemented through each RIBA Plan of Work stage to enable informed decision making at the right time and with the right stakeholders, to support the best project outcomes:

* [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/dfma-overlay-to-the-riba-plan-of-work Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) Overlay] (November 2021).
* [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/passivhaus-overlay-to-the-riba-plan-of-work Passivhaus Overlay] (February 2023).
* [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/security-overlay-to-the-plan-of-work Security Overlay] (April 2023).
* [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/inclusive-design-overlay-to-riba-plan-of-work Inclusive Design Overlay] (July 2023).
* [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/engagement-overlay-to-riba-plan-of-work Engagement Overlay] (January 2024).
* [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/smart-building-overlay-to-riba-plan-of-work Smart Building Overlay] (February 2024).

As at 2026, the Smart Building Overlay remains the most recently published overlay; no further overlays have since been added to the suite.

The green overlay, with reference to Soft Landings, was also published in 2011; for further information see [https://www.bsria.com/uk/news/article/riba-plan-of-work-green-overlay-supports-soft-landings/ Green Overlay].

= Criticism of the RIBA plan of work =

The RIBA plan of work has been criticised for continually changing the names and definitions of project stages, and for a lack of co-ordination with other industry project plans. This can leave clients and other stakeholders confused about what terminology is being used, and what it refers to - for example, the re-naming of detail design as spatial co-ordination is not something that is widely understood.

In addition the plan has been criticised for focussing too much on the role of the architect, and not giving enough detail about the crucial planning stages that happen before an architect is appointed. Those early stages are instrumental in defining the way the project is set up, and the nature of the project that the client intends to develop.

You can find out more about the RIBA plan of work at: [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/riba-plan-of-work https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/riba-plan-of-work]

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* BREEAM and RIBA stages.
* Comparison of BIM work stages.
* Governance for Railway Investment Projects (GRIP).
* OGC gateway review.
* Project lifecycle for major road projects.
* RIBA Plan of Work for Fire Safety.
* RIBA plan of work v project plans v OGC gateways.
* RIBA.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Report]] [[Category:DCN_Standard]] [[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Publications_/_reports]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Regulations]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Client_procedures]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]

Cost plans for construction projects

2026-09-01T07:47:08Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Money-gf11680f3b 1280.jpg]]

= What are cost plans? =

Cost plans are generally prepared by cost consultants (often quantity surveyors), and provide a snapshot of the likely costs associated with construction works. They evolve through the life of the project, developing in detail and accuracy as more information becomes available about the nature of the design, and then actual prices are provided by suppliers.

= What are the different types of cost plan? =

Starting with initial appraisals at the beginning of a project and evolving through to the final account, the range of types of cost plan that might be prepared on a project include:

* Initial cost appraisal (studies of options prepared during the feasibility study stage).
* Elemental cost plan (prepared during the project brief stage and carried through to detailed design).
* Approximate quantities cost plan (from the end of detailed design through to tender).
* Pre-tender estimate (prepared alongside tender documentation).
* Tender pricing document (strictly speaking this is not a priced document, but is part of the tender documentation issued to the contractor for pricing).
* Contract sum (agreed with the contractor during the tender period and adjusted during the construction period).
* Contract sum analysis (a break down of the contract sum prepared by the contractor on design and build projects).
* Final account (agreed during the defects liability period).

= What is included in cost plans? =

Other than initial cost appraisals, these all relate to the construction cost of the project (rather than wider project costs that the client might incur, which could include fees, equipment costs, furniture, the cost of moving staff, contracts outside of the main works, and so on). It is important that the client makes clear what costs should be included in cost plans and what will remain within the control of the client organisation.

Initial cost appraisals are carried out without the benefit of a design for the project. They include client costs that may not feature in later cost plans and as a result will almost certainly need input from the client's finance director or financial advisers.

Once the initial cost appraisal is completed, the client will decide the scope of costs that will in future be monitored by the cost consultant and those that will be monitored and controlled by the client organisation.

Cost plans, and the elemental and approximate quantities that underpin them, are generally prepared with reference to the New Rules of Measurement (NRM), published by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The NRM suite was reissued by RICS as practice information in October 2022, incorporating a 2021 update, and RICS has confirmed that earlier editions are now out of date.

= Sources of other information about cost plans =

Articles about cost plans and cost control on Designing Buildings include:

* Approximate quantities cost plan.
* Bills of quantities.
* Budget.
* Business plan.
* Cash flow.
* Contract sum.
* Contract sum analysis.
* Cost consultant.
* Cost control.
* Cost engineering.
* Cost monitoring.
* Cost of building.
* Cross estimating method.
* Elemental cost plan.
* Estimate.
* Final account.
* Initial cost appraisal.
* Measurement.
* New Rules of Measurement.
* Order of cost estimate.
* Outturn cost.
* Pre-tender estimate.
* Stage 2 cost plan.
* Stage 3 cost plan.
* Tender cost.
* Tender pricing document.
* Whole-life costs.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Project_Knowledge]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]]

Contractor's design portion

2026-09-01T07:39:23Z

Designing Buildings:

The contractor's designed portion (sometimes referred to as 'contractor's design portion' or CDP) is associated with JCT construction contracts. It is an agreement for the contractor to design specific parts of the works. The contractor may in turn sub-contract this design work to specialist sub-contractors. This should not be confused with design and build contracts where the contractor is appointed to design the whole of the works.

Until 2005, the JCT Standard Building Contract had a contractor's designed portion supplement for use where the appointed contractor was required to design specific parts of the works. This provision has now been incorporated into the main contract, but a separate sub-contractor design agreement is available where the main contractor is to design specific parts of the works and a sub-contractor is to design part or all of the sub-contract works.

The JCT Intermediate Building Contract still has a separate contractor's design agreement, as well as a sub-contractor's design agreement. The JCT Minor Works Contract has a 'with contractor's design' option and a separate sub-contract with sub-contractor's design.

The client's requirements for contractor's design will generally be set out in the tender documents as 'Employer's Requirements' in response to which the contractor will submit 'Contractor's Proposals'.

Contractor's design may be used with a Pre-Construction Services Agreement or Pre-Construction Services Agreement (Specialist) to provide early consultancy services to the project before the main construction contract commences.

Often, the portion of design left to the contractor is the detailing work undertaken by specialist manufacturers and installers. The main contractor has responsibility for managing the procurement of its specialist sub-contractor's design in an orderly fashion and to an agreed programme so it can be approved by the client's design team (who within their conditions of engagement avoid liability for specialist design).

The main contractor also has to ensure that various specialist sub-contractors under its control co-ordinate their emerging designs with each other. For instance the services sub-contractors need to know both the grid system and position of fixings for a suspended ceiling and likewise the ceiling sub-contractor needs to know details of plant above ceilings which require maintenance access. To carry out this management function 'design managers' have become a regular addition to the main contractor's project staff.

The main contractor may be given the responsibility for ensuring that its sub-contractor's design is submitted for and obtains building regulations approval. The client's design team will usually submit specialist design to the planning authorities when necessary to satisfy planning conditions since it is generally the design team's responsibility to obtain full planning consent.

Design consultants need to judge how far to take their design before handing over its completion to specialists. Furthermore it must be made abundantly clear exactly what the specialist has to design within the work section. A performance specification must describe quality both in terms of function and form, bearing in mind that contractors tendering in competition will respond with the cheapest option available to meet the specification.

The use of sub-contractor design approval procedures to improve what was tendered has been the source of back door variations and many contractual disputes in relation to cost and/or delay. On the other hand it is a waste of designers' resources and time to develop the design of systems that may or may not be used. Closed specifications reduce options in the specialist market and this is not in the best interests of the client.

It is sensible for the main tender documents to ask for a sub-contractor design programme to be submitted by the main contractor within a certain period after the contract has been placed. This should track specialist design, the approval process, manufacture and installation and fit into the overall contract programme. It is reasonable for the design team to insist on an even workload of sub-contractor drawing submittals so it can balance its resources in relation to the comment and approval process.

The introduction of building information modelling (BIM) has had a significant effect on contractor's design. Where a fully-integrated and collaborative building model has been prepared by the time of the main contractor's appointment, it is unlikely that this will simply be handed over to the main contractor.

The model is more likely to remain under the management of the client's design team. Whoever is managing the model will be the party that has to manage the collective input of specialist designers. The main contractor's role in this process could therefore become reduced, which is not always straightforward under the terms of contractor's design agreements, since it can mean the designers are effectively controlling activities of the main contractor's sub-contractors.

However, the main contractor carries the risk of a fixed price and meeting the contract completion date. For this and for programme reasons, contractor's design in the way it has traditionally operated is, in some sectors, giving way to earlier specialist involvement. The advent of BIM has tended to alter the timing of the inclusion of specialist design so that it takes place in the pre-construction design stage rather than in the construction stage.

Consequently the design team may work on the design with specialists in the pre-construction stage and insist that the tendering contractors adopt the specialist and its design as part of the tender offer. In this way the scope of specialist work, its price and programme are included within the main contractor's bid.

The main contractor's tender documents will also give the main contractor the choice of seeking alternative sub-contractors, thus avoiding the legal problems associated with nominated sub-contractors in cases where the courts have judged that a main contractor was not liable for the performance of a sub-contractor forced upon it by the client or its agents.

The JCT Standard Building Contract 2024 edition, which supersedes the 2016 edition, introduced a clarification of the contractor's design liability standard for the contractor's designed portion: the contract now states expressly that the contractor's design obligation is to exercise reasonable skill and care, and is under no circumstances subject to a fit-for-purpose obligation. The 2024 edition also introduced a new article requiring the parties to identify the principal designer and principal contractor for the purposes of the Building Regulations, and new collaborative working provisions requiring the parties to work together in a co-operative and collaborative manner, in good faith and in a spirit of trust and respect.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Building Information Modelling.
* Contractor.
* Design management.
* Design manager.
* Early appointment / involvement.
* JCT.
* Nominated sub-contractor.
* Performance specification.
* Pre construction services agreement.
* Prime cost sum.
* Responsibility for design.
* Sub-contractor.
* Submittals.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Contracts_/_payment]] [[Category:Procurement]]

Health and safety file

2026-09-01T07:38:25Z

Designing Buildings:

[[File:Health-and-Safetyfile.jpg]]

The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM Regulations) are intended to ensure that health and safety issues are properly considered during a project's development so that the risk of harm to those who have to build, use and maintain structures is reduced. They were introduced in 1994 and revised in 2007 and 2015.

Where projects involve more than one contractor, the CDM Regulations require the client ensures the principal designer prepares a health and safety file so that, at the end of the project, the client is in possession of information anyone carrying out subsequent work on the building will need to know to plan and carry out that work safely.

The health and safety file must be appropriate to the characteristics of the project and include a level of detail proportionate to the risks. It should only include relevant information that will be of help when planning future construction work and must be in a convenient form, clear, concise and easily understandable.

It does not need to include information about the construction process (which may be included in the construction phase plan), unless it may affect future works. It does not need to include contractual information, pre-construction information or information about the normal operation of the completed structure (which may be included in the building owner's manual or the building log book).

The principal designer prepares the health and safety file during the pre-construction phase. They must then ensure it is appropriately reviewed, updated and revised to take account of the construction works and any changes that have occurred.

Where designers are not able to eliminate risks from the design, they must ensure appropriate information is included in the health and safety file. The principal contractor must also provide the principal designer with information for inclusion in the health and safety file.

If the principal designer's appointment finishes before the end of the project, the client must ensure that the principal designer passes the health and safety file to the principal contractor. The principal contractor must then ensure that the health and safety file is appropriately reviewed, updated and revised to take account of the construction works and any changes that have occurred.

At the end of the project, the principal designer, or where there is no principal designer, the principal contractor, must pass the health and safety file to the client.

[http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l153.htm Managing health and safety in construction, Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, Guidance on Regulations] suggests that the health and safety file might contain:

* A brief description of the work carried out.
* Any hazards that have not been eliminated through the design and construction processes, and how they have been addressed (e.g. surveys or other information concerning asbestos or contaminated land).
* Key structural principles (e.g. bracing, sources of substantial stored energy - including pre- or post-tensioned members) and safe working loads for floors and roofs.
* Hazardous materials used (e.g. lead paints and special coatings).
* Information regarding the removal or dismantling of installed plant and equipment (e.g. any special arrangements for lifting such equipment).
* Health and safety information about equipment provided for cleaning or maintaining the structure.
* The nature, location and markings of significant services, including underground cables, gas supply equipment and fire-fighting services.
* Information and as-built drawings of the building, its plant and equipment (e.g. the means of safe access to and from service voids and fire doors).

The health and safety file must be kept up to date and available for inspection. If work is done to premises where a health and safety file already exists, the health and safety file should be updated if necessary and any gaps filled.

The health and safety file is normally kept for the lifetime of the building, meaning that it should be passed on to the new owners if the building is sold, and the new owners should be informed of its purpose and importance. There are no restrictions to the format that it has to be kept in, but it would be wise to ensure it is backed up.

If premises are leased, then the health and safety file must be made available to the leaseholder. If there are multiple leaseholders, then those parts of the health and safety file relevant to the part of the building leased by each leaseholder must be made available to them. In multi-occupancy situations - for example, where a housing association owns a block of flats - the owner should keep and maintain the file, but ensure that individual flat occupiers are supplied with health and safety information concerning their home.

The Health and Safety Executive completed its second Post Implementation Review of the CDM Regulations 2015 in 2026, concluding that no major changes to the regulations were necessary. The review found the underlying legal framework to be sound, with the principal areas for improvement lying in practical implementation rather than legislative reform - in particular, principal designer competency and involvement, the effectiveness of the pre-construction stage, proportionality for smaller projects, and digitisation of health and safety information such as the health and safety file itself.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Accident book.
* Accident report.
* Building manual.
* Building owner's manual - O and M manual.
* CDM.
* CDM client.
* CDM designer.
* Construction phase plan.
* First aider.
* Health and safety policy.
* How to write a method statement.
* Pre-construction information.
* Principal designer.
* Principal contractor.
* Safety management.
* What is a hazard?
* Working in confined conditions.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Regulation]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Building_safety]]

Articles by the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA)

2026-09-01T07:36:26Z

Designing Buildings:

The Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) is the UK’s leading trade association that represents and supports the interests of businesses and organisations involved in electrotechnical and engineering services design, installation, inspection, testing, maintenance and monitoring across the UK (excluding Scotland). Since 1901

ECA is a founder member of [https://www.actuateuk.org.uk/ Actuate UK], a collective of eight leading trade, technology, research, and professional bodies in engineering services that deliver a single, consolidated voice for the sector.

= Articles by ECA on Designing Buildings include: =

# Have your say on ECA’s public affairs priorities. September 2026
# Data centre growth must not outpace grid capacity or skills supply. August 2026
# ECA welcomes Government announcement on procurement reforms. August 2026
# ECA 2026 Edmundson apprentice of the year finalists announced. July 2026
# ECA welcomes stricter subcontractor quality control. July 2026
# Building Safety Regulator updates approach to higher-risk building assessments. July 2026
# ECA collaborates on industry guide to managing competence. May 2026.
# King’s Speech: Electrical contractors welcome crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy. (mention) May 2026.
# ITFG publishes new guidance on managing competence in organisations across the built environment (mention). May 2026.
# Apprenticeships pay back: ECA, JIB and JTL back Fabian Society call to invest in skills for a stronger built environment workforce. May 2026
# A safe energy transition – ECA launches a new Charter. April 2026.
# ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026. April 2026.
# Building Regulation amendments to implement Future Homes and Buildings Standard. April 2026.
# The operational value of workforce health. March 2026
# Late payment consultation outcome: time to pay up. March 2026
# Future Homes Building Standards and plug-in solar availability. (mention) March 2026
# Assessing workforce requirements for home retrofitting in Wales. March 2026
# Industry publishes first comprehensive skills plan for engineering and building services. March 2026
# Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future. February 2026
# Safe School Gates Campaign. February 2026
# Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster (mention). February 2026
# Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand. February 2026
# Welsh and Scottish 2026 elections.(mention) February 2026
# Employment Rights Act 2025. February 2026
# Guidance notes to prepare for April Employment Rights Act changes. February 2026
# Solar panels, pitched roofs and risk of fire spread (mention) February 2026.
# ECA launches Welsh Election Manifesto. January 2026.
# Warm Homes Plan Workforce Taskforce. (mention), January 2026.
# The Warm Homes Plan details released. (mention), January 2026.
# The Orange book: 2026 Amendment 4 to BS 7671:2018, January 2026.
# Wired for the Future with ECA; powering skills and progress. January 2026.
# ECA urges next Welsh Government to address dramatic fall in electrical apprentices to enhance the Welsh economy. January 2026.
# ECA launches 125th anniversary year. January 2026.
# Fire, security and life safety systems with ECA. December 2025.
# Building Safety recap November, 2025 (mention). December 2025.
# Electrical body welcomes DESNZ clean workforce report. December 2025.
# Private Tenancies Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024. December 2025.
# ECA supports Government u-turn on day one protection from unfair dismissal. December 2025.
# Construction and the autumn Budget 2025 (mention). November 2025.
# ECA given lifetime achievement award by SELECT as it moves into its 125th year. November 2025.
# The Flexible Skills Programme Wales. November 2025
# Industry calls for Government to prioritise reduction in electricity levies. November 2025
# Parliamentary roundtable unites industry and policy makers to drive UK electrification. November 2025
# How the Electrical Contractors' Association is acting on its member priorities. November 2025
# Collaboration in action to bridge the electrical skills gap in Kent. October 2025
# ECA welcomes Government’s Clean Energy Jobs Plan. October 2025
# Alliance launched in Cheshire to collaborate on filling local electrical skills gaps. September 2025
# Late payments consultation: tackling poor payment practices. September 2025
# ECA Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2025. September 2025
# Wired for growth: How electricians can close the skills gap. September 2025
# Retention reforms are within reach. September 2025
# Call for Government to ensure accountability and action on online marketplaces for product safety. Sept 2025
# Transparency on payment performance data. Aug 2025
# A clean energy future and the promise of opportunities for electrical contractors. Aug 2025
# Skills England assessment published as ECA Skills Committee appoints new Deputy Chair. Aug 2025
# ECA Skills Committee appoints new Deputy Chair. Aug 2025
# BEAMA releases safety-focused technical guidance. Aug 2025
# 50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award. Aug 2025
# Welsh Apprenticeship Pathways report welcomed. Aug 2025
# Industry welcomes long awaited Government support SMEs. Aug 2025
# 2025 ECA Industry Awards judging concludes. Aug 2025
# New test to provide access to the Experienced Worker Assessment for electricians without qualifications. July 2025
# Next steps for electrification. ECA meets Climate Change Committee. July 2025
# CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025. July 2025
# Common Assessment Standard updated with mandatory building safety questions. July 2025
# The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan (mention). June 2025
# Construction Skills Mission Board launch construction sector skills mission. June 2025
# Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan. June 2025
# UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions. June 2025
# The Lighting Industry Association endorses the Blueprint for Electrification. June 2025
# International Electrician Day. June 2025
# ECA welcomes reports on skills gap and investment returns on apprenticeships. May 2025
# Design and construction industry podcasts. May 2025
# ECA urges Government to uphold 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment. May 2025
# 50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award launched. May 2025
# It takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing. May 2025
# New President of ECA announced. May 2025
# PPN 021: Payment Spot Checks in Public Sub-Contracts. May 2025
# ECA progress on Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter. April 2025
# Electrical and energy industry calls for urgent reform of electricity levies. April 2025
# Amendment to the GB Energy Bill to prevent investment in panels produced by modern slavery. April 2025
# 50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award launched. April 2025
# Global Asbestos Awareness Week; highlighting the continued threat. April 2025.
# The Aldershot Half-house. March 2025.
# Spring Statement 2025. mention quote. March 2025.
# 600 million investment for 60,000 more skilled construction workers announced. mention quote. March 2025.
# Industry survey shows growth remains flat as skill shortages and volatile pricing persist. March 2025.
# Treasury responds to sector submission on Labour Warm Homes manifesto pledge. March 2025.
# ECA consultations on skills. March 2025.
# Skills shortage and ageing workforce hampering Scottish transition to net zero. (mention). March 2025.
# Reactions to the government response to the Grenfell inquiry final report. March 2025.
# Electrifying our Future: ECA's digital series unveils road to net-zero. March 2025.
# 50 years celebrating the ECA Apprenticeship Awards, as SMEs say the 10 years of the Apprenticeship Levy has failed them. February 2025.
# Flexibility over requirements to boost apprentice numbers (mention). February 2025.
# National Apprenticeship Week at ECA. February 2025
# National Apprenticeship Week 2025 (mention). February 2025
# Classroom electrician courses a 'waste of money'. February 2025
# Amendment to Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regulations approved. January 2025
# Solar PV company fined for health and safety failure. January 2025
# Strategic restructure to transform industry competence. December 2024
# Electrical businesses brace for project delays in 2025. December 2024
# Building trust with customers, and trusting tradesmen. December 2024
# New alliance will tackle skills shortage in greater Manchester. November 2024
# ECA launches Recharging Electrical Skills Charter in Wales. November 2024
# About the 5 Percent Club and its members. November 2024
# Delivering radical reform in the UK energy market. November 2024
# What does the UK Budget mean for electrical contractors? November 2024
# Reactions to the Autumn Budget announcement. October 2024
# Employment Rights Bill; making work pay. October 2024
# 2024 ECA Industry Awards evening. October 2024
# Can your business afford to ignore mental well-being? October 2024
# ISG administration, October support update. October 2024
# Crackdown on late payments in major support package for small businesses. October 2024
# Recharging Electrical Skills in Wales. October 2024
# ECA industry focus video channel. October 2024
# ECA learning zone video channel. October 2024
# Support for ISG contractors, companies and employees (mention). September 2024
# ISG files for administration. September 2024
# Wall of support for post-Grenfell regulation of electricians highlighted on radio. September 2024
# New ECA learning zone and industry focus videos (update). September 2024
# Skills gap highlighted to Minister for Industry. September 2024
# Industry responds to the final Grenfell inquiry report. September 2024
# Extension to recognition of CE marking. September 2024.
# Building engineering business survey highlights persistent skills gap. August 2024
# What electrical contractors need to know about gate safety. August 2024
# A-Level results and electrical apprenticeships. August 2024
# ECA launches new Apprenticeship resources. August 2024
# ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed. July 2024
# Electrical engineering firm's recruitment drive. July 2024
# Industry reacts to first labour government King's speech in fifteen years. July 2024
# Research project looking at UK cases of neutral current diversion. July 2024
# Neutral current diversion (mention and link). July 2024
# SkillELECTRIC Top 8 Competitors Named. July 2024
# Anonymous and safe reporting service to stop meter tampering. July 2024
# In brief, Rachel Reeves gives first speech as Chancellor (PR included). July 2024
# Construction industry reactions to the election result. July 2024
# At a Crossroads; Pathways to a Net Zero Future (mention). July 2024
# The ECA Recharging Electrical Skills Charter included in key report. July 2024
# The benefits of private medical insurance for large, medium and small electrical contractor firms. July 2024
# Beware of rogue trainers warns the electrotechnical skills partnership. June 2024
# ECA learning zone and industry focus video series. June 2024
# ECA exceeds carbon reduction targets. June 2024
# Future of Green Skills in Sussex. June 2024
# ECA general election campaign. June 2024
# The construction industry and the general election (mention). June 2024
# New electrical apprentice rates. May 2024
# Engineering services still struggle with labour shortages. May 2024
# New ECA president 2024. May 2024
# Coronation recognised eco apprenticeships continue help grow green workforce. May 2024
# No Falls Week. The importance of safe working at height. May 2024
# CLC publishes retrofit competence framework. May 2024
# ECA experts speak at Installation Seminar. May 2024
# Auditory health. April 2024
# An introduction to WERCS and WEEE responsibilities. April 2024
# ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award. April 2024
# ECA Industry Awards 2024. April 2024
# Frankfurt industry fair leads the way. April 2024
# Advice following Options Skills training collapse. March 2024
# Electrical sector calls for safer public EV charge points. March 2024
# Apprenticeship announcement by prime minister welcomed with call for more actionable detail. March 2024
# Investing in Net Zero: bridging the gap between policy, finance and installation. March 2024
# ECA joins HSE campaign to support mental health. March 2024
# Industry responds to the 2024 Spring Budget announcement (mention). March 2024
# ECA responds to 2024 Spring Budget. March 2024
# The general election and why a shortage of electrical apprentices matters. March 2024
# ECA calls on London Mayor to prioritise green electrical skills in the capital. February 2024
# Final quarter 2023 survey of UK engineering services. February 2024
# Improving the terms of contractor payments. February 2024
# EBSSA unveils work to codify competences & standards for industry. January 2023
# Legislation needed in response to the role of retentions in company insolvency. January 2023
# Westminster urged to focus on local skills improvement or face skilled electrician shortfall. January 2023
# ECA and FSA Members voice concern over Wales apprenticeship cuts. January 2023
# First EAL Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Providing Electronic Fire and Security Systems students handed awards by Dame Judith Hackitt. January 2023
# UK WEEE compliance scheme responds to WEEE consultation. January 2023
# Stress free guide to Self Assessment. December 2023.
# ECA welcomes Government battery storage response. December 2023.
# Solar energy workforce goals and the ECA Charter to recharge electrical skills. December 2023.
# Electrical sector skills recharge at the House of Commons, as skills shortage bites. December 2023.
# Update on the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS). December 2023.
# Does the Autumn Statement fire the starting pistol for an election campaign? November 2023
# 2023 Autumn Statement in brief with reactions (ECA mention). November 2023
# ECA applauds Chancellor’s 2023 Autumn Statement payment reforms for SMEs. November 2023
# Environment Agency cuts waste red tape. November 2023
# Bill to tackle lithium-ion batteries proposed. November 2023
# Cabinet office payment rules within the procurement act welcomed. November 2023
# Electrical skills shortage in Eastern England. October 2023
# A view from the 2023 Conservative and Labour party conferences. October 2023
# ECA helps Welsh Government consultation on Net Zero Skills. October 2023
# Call for support in green electrical apprentice shortfall. October 2023
# Electrician recognised for fundraising efforts. October 2023
# ECA 2023 Apprentice of the Year Award announcement. September 2023
# BSR Duty holder Regulations in force as of October 1. September 2023
# Industry responds to Prime Ministers Net Zero policy announcement. September 2023
# FSA welcomes Building Safety updates. September 2023
# ECA Project Net Zero roadshow. September 2023
# SSE begins BESS construction in North of England. September 2023
# Engineering services industry grapples with rising demand and skills shortage. August 2023
# ECA appoints new Technical Manager. August 2023
# Industry Competence Committee for the Building Safety Regulator. August 2023
# ECA Cyber Security policy template. August 2023
# Spatial planning for climate resilience and Net Zero report. July 2023
# Domestic electrician experienced worker assessment EWA. July 2023
# ECA joins ESNZ Committee stakeholder event to set inquiry priorities. July 2023
# National Electrotechnical Training AM2 certificate checker. June 2023
# Put electricians at the heart of the clean energy transition, says ECA. June 2023
# ECA Industry Awards 2023. June 2023
# Edmundson Apprentice Award 2023 deadline extended. June 2023
# ECA call for case studies of Net Zero Carbon work. May 2023
# Net Zero not possible without right skills.May 2023
# Impact of labour shortages worsen for engineering services. May 2023
# New ECA president 2023. May 2023
# Electricians pledge support for Manchester Baccalaureate. May 2023
# Industry welcomes new fire and security apprenticeship for Wales. May 2023
# Corrigendum to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. May 2023
# Electrifying the elections. May 2023
# ECA 2023 Apprentice of the Year Award. April 2023
# Solving the fire and security skills shortage. April 2023.
# BASEC joins forces with Kiwa UK. April 2023
# Public sector PQQs look to the Common Assessment Standard. April 2023
# ECA partners with adviser to help members navigate R&D tax relief. March 2023
# 2023 Spring Budget summary and industry response. March 2023
# Asbestos and you. March 2023
# Business Survey: payment and recruitment challenges loom for engineering services in 2023. March 2023
# England, Wales, electrical skills, training and net zero in 2023. March 2023
# New Ministry champions holistic approach to decarbonisation. February 2023
# East Midlands EV drivers lose out to Londoners says new evidence. February 2023
# Apprenticeship developments in England 2023. February 2023.
# leading the charge - ECA calls for swift action on EV ‘batteries on wheels’ OFGEM plan.January 2023
# President of EuropeOn, Martin Bailey, on the outlook for 2023. January 2023
# ECA 2023 Industry Awards dinner with Jeremy Vine, January 2023
# Net Zero Review underlines role for engineering services. January 2023
# Higher risk buildings definition 2023. January 2023
# Europe moves to phase out electrical sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas. December 2022
# Winter energy crisis: ECA’s advice for managing power cuts. December 2022
# Leading the charge‎. (added Award update). December 2022
# Sector survey shows optimism tempered by staff shortages.November 2022.
# Defining hazardous areas. November 2022
# Chancellor's 2022 Autumn statement industry response. (joint mention) November 2022
# No net zero without skilled workforce. November 2022
# ECA joins voices calling for joined-up policy approach.. November 2022
# Leading the charge‎. (added COP 27 update). November 2022
# ECA reacts to Rishi Sunak's appointment as PM. October 2022
# National policies and local skills.October 2022
# Actuate UK calls for practical measures to achieve building safety reform agenda. October 2022
# Procurement Bill to mandate prompt payment. October 2022
# Electricity market reform must promote clean energy. October 2022
# Apprenticeships for prisoners. October 2022
# Amendment 2 18th Edition Wiring Regulations BS 7671 come into full effect. October 2022
# World EV Day 2022. September 2022
# ECA 2022 Apprentice of the Year Award. (updated) September 2022
# ECA responds to Energy Bill Relief Scheme. September 2022
# Managing the risks of state events following the Queen’s death. September 2022
# Energy bills now a defining challenge and opportunity. September 2022
# Leading the charge.September 2022.
# Act now to avoid industry crisis, ECA warns Liz Truss. September 2022
# Electricians urged to join fight against tool theft. August 2022
# Common Assessment Standard uptake grows. August 2022
# Health and early intervention. August 2022
# Government mandates smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in rented homes. August 2022
# ECA 2022 Apprentice of the Year Award. August 2022
# Changes to the construction route. August 2022
# ECA members named top apprentice employers. July 2022
# Legislate for competence and safety. July 2022
# The future of construction interview with ECA CEO. June 2022.
# Cleaning up air quality and the Environment Act 2021. June 2022.
# The Building Safety Act and standard training for electrical contractors. June 2022
# Net-zero opportunities for electrotechnical contractors‎. May 2022
# Queens speech 2022 (ECA press release within article). May 2022
# Local Elections 2022: ECA calls for better local EV charge point policy. May 2022.
# ECA calls for stronger competency requirements in Building Safety Act. May 2022
# Construction leadership council professional indemnity insurance survey 2022. April 2022 ‎
# ‎ECA Project 18 Amendment 2 Roadshow. April 2022
# PPE regulations 2022. April 2022
# ‎ECA joins calls for unprecedented action on energy prices in Spring Budget. March 2022
# Achieving efficiency through systems and integration. March 2022 ‎
# The Building Safety Bill, regulations and competence. March 2022.
# Court of appeal ruling on holiday pay and employment status. February 2022.
# CO2nstruct Zero programme grows to over 70 businesses. February 2022.
# ECA calls on Government to reform and rebalance energy levies and avoid cost of living crisis. February 2022.
# CONIAC produces essential messages on safe work at height. January 2022.
# IET announces release of 18th Edition Amendment 2. January 2022.
# Industry work placement. January 2022.
# Electrotechnical Assessment Specification guidance for installers. January 2022.
# ECA and UKPN launch EV guide. January 2022.
# Energy price crisis: ECA calls for energy levy reform. January 2022.
# Reflections on 2021. December 2021.
# 2021 Building Engineering Business Survey. December 2021.
# Prompt Payment Code boosted to help SMEs. December 2021.
# ECA warns lack of EV strategy could leave UK divided. November 2021.
# Two thirds of local authorities have no plans to install EV chargers. November 2021.
# Leading electrotechnical businesses win top industry awards. November 2021.
# ECA backs Government plans for low-carbon heat. October 2021.
# Electrotechnical industry gears up for All-IP switch. October 2021.
# Construction leadership for mental health. September 2021.
# Post-Grenfell product code combats misleading marketing. September 2021.
# Actuate UK issues climate warning and urges action. September 2021.
# Industry must add 12,000 people a year to meet net zero 2050 targets. September 2021.
# Order books fill but skills shortages worry contractors. September 2021.
# Home thoughts from abroad: skills development. September 2021.
# Deadline for CE marked products extended to 1 January 2023. August 2021.
# Digital building dashboard tech on the horizon. August 2021.
# ECA responds to the UK hydrogen strategy. August 2021.
# Home thoughts from abroad: Immigration. August 2021.
# A level results day 2021: Students consider jobs of the future after the pandemic. August 2021.
# Flexible working in engineering services. July 2021.
# Careful planning required during cable management materials shortages. July 2021.
# CLC publishes Construct Zero Performance Framework. July 2021.
# Green Homes Grant vouchers extended. July 2021.
# ECA calls for urgent energy price reform. June 2021.
# Is social media the new way to plug the gender skills gap? June 2021.
# Economic upturn masks mental health crisis in 2021. June 2021.
# Net zero by 2050. June 2021.
# Converting commercial offices to residential accommodation. June 2021.
# CLC Maintaining Employment in Construction report published. May 2021.
# Q2 2021 trends indicate higher costs, lower employment. May 2021.
# Materials shortage prompts extra planning. May 2021.
# What to know about foundation earthing. May 2021.
# ECA welcomes the Value Toolkit for the construction industry. May 2021.
# Opportunities for EV charging. April 2021.
# TESP calls for industry mentors. April 2021.
# Workplace noise exposure estimator. April 2021.
# 2021 PRS electrical safety standards. April 2021.
# Pre-qualification standard 2021. March 2021.
# Right to Repair law. March 2021.
# Cash incentives for employers to hire new apprentices doubled. March 2021.
# Prompt Payment Code: the story behind the headlines. February 2021.
# Skilled workforce unable to meet net zero ambitions. January 2021.
# COVID-19 and mental health within construction firms. January 2021.
# Eight organisations form engineering services alliance. January 2021.
# CLC document on claims and disputes in construction. January 2021.
# Shortages of cable management products. December 2020.
# Energy White Paper presents Government plans to build back greener. December 2020.
# Getting zero carbon done. November 2020.
# CICV creates COVID toolkit. November 2020.
# Modular housing and electrical circuitry. November 2020
# Winter Support 2020 - 2021 packages for businesses. October 2020.
# CLC releases Site Operating Procedures v6. October 2020.
# What’s the best way into the industry? October 2020.
# Half of public sector bodies not planning for net zero carbon. September 2020.
# ECA Survey: Industry remains optimistic despite downturn. September 2020.
# Competition and the independent electric wholesalers. September 2020.
# ECA calls for petrol and diesel ban by 2030. August 2020.
# ECA apprentice secondment service. August 2020
# Face coverings and a shifting policy background. August 2020.
# Microgeneration Certification Scheme 2020. July 2020.
# Skills for Climate consultation launched. July 2020.
# Payments for recruiting new apprentices. July 2020.
# UK Points-Based Immigration System 2020. July 2020.
# Engineering services and industry recovery guide. July 2020.
# Organisations prompt government to Build Back Green. June 2020.
# Celebrating women in engineering. June 2020.
# Electrical safety in the private rented sector. June 2020.
# Plan proposes to reinvent construction industry. June 2020.
# Survey records business projections after coronavirus storm. May 2020.
# The future of the coronavirus furlough. May 2020.
# New domestic electrical work video. May 2020.
# IR35: essential steps for compliance. May 2020.
# Engineering services bodies issue coronavirus site safety guides. May 2020
# Officials pledge to continue housebuilding work. Apr 2020
# Coronavirus job retention scheme. Mar 2020
# Coronavirus impact survey. Mar 2020
# Government procurement post-Carillion. Mar 2020
# 37% of SMEs suffer mental health problems due to pay issues. Mar 2020
# Carbon emissions of electric heating v gas. Mar 2020
# Coronavirus and force majeure. Feb 2020
# ECA backs joint rail electrification statement. Feb 2020
# Electrotechnical Assessment Specification. Feb 2020
# Building an electrical grid for our times. Feb 2020
# Achieving zero carbon. Jan 2020
# Ancona eco-mansion. Jan 2020
# The real impact of late payment. Jan 2020
# SF6 - the greenhouse gas at the heart of our industry. Jan 2020
# Opening the door to apprenticeships for all. Jan 2020
# Cutting VAT can unleash green housing revolution. Jan 2012
# How installer competence can help prevent major residential fires. Dec 2019
# Survey shows offsite construction is safer, faster, greener and cheaper. Dec 2019
# Business owners forced to stop paying employees due to late payment. Nov 2019
# Qualifying as a professional electrician. Nov 2019
# Disturbing complacency over short courses. Nov 2019
# Low-voltage switchgear and protective devices. Nov 2019
# New standards for better fire safety in homes. Nov 2019
# Data cables and the CPR. Nov 2019
# Zero Carbon by 2050 - pipe dream or possibility? Oct 2019
# The SME's updated guide to Brexit. Oct 2019
# PowerLottery helps give electrical industry colleagues a better tomorrow. Sep 2019
# 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. Aug 2019
# Vulnerable residents at risk from under-qualified workforce. Aug 2109
# Careers in the electrotechnical industry. Aug 2019
# Employee assistance programme EAP. Aug 2019
# Levelling the playing field. Aug 2019
# Industry backs leading fire and security awards.Aug 2019
# Changing lives with the Practical Participation Programme. Aug 2019
# Electrical system. Jul 2019
# Electrical wiring. Jul 2019
# Electrical definition. Jul 2019
# Electricity bill. Jul 2019
# Progress on poor payment practices. Jul 2019
# Higher penalties for employers breaching workers' rights. Jul 2019
# VAT hike puts brakes on home solar and batteries. Jul 2019
# Electrical safety. Jun 2019
# Electrical power. Jun 2019
# Electrical installation. Jun 2019
# Electrical equipment. Jun 2019
# Electrical energy. Jun 2019
# Electrical consumption. Jun 2019
# Electrical component. Jun 2019
# The real deal - at last? Jun 2019
# A zero-carbon UK by 2050? Jun 2019
# CAS answers an expensive problem for industry. Jun 2019
# Consumer unit. Jun 2019
# Electrical appliance. Jun 2019
# Electric motor. Jun 20019
# Electric lock. Jun 2019
# Consumer electronics. Jun 2019
# How the Electrical Industries Charity helps tackle domestic abuse. May 2019
# Formula E drives electric vehicle market forward. May 2019
# ECA 2018 Apprentice of the Year. May 2019.
# EIC apprentice support programme. Apr 2019
# Employment status: a concise guide. Apr 2019
# Smart meter owners report higher, not lower, bills. Apr 2019
# Good Work Plan promises clearer contracts, fairer rules. Mar 2019
# Campaign for cash retentions reform. Mar 2019
# The commercial implications of Brexit. Mar 2019
# The UK's low-carbon future is increasingly electric. Mar 2019
# Work at height checklist for managers. Mar 2019
# Maintaining standards through Brexit and beyond. Feb 2019

--[[User:ECA|ECA]]

[[Category:DCN_Organisation]] [[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Publications_/_reports]]

News from the web

2026-09-01T07:32:18Z

Designing Buildings:

Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.

-----
[[Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities|ECA's public affairs priorities]]

[[File:ECA_logo_blue_cropped_350.jpg|link=Have_your_say_on_ECA's_public_affairs_priorities]]

Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.

-----
[[Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities|Domestic projects in Wales]]

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Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.

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[[Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham|Where performance meets practice]]

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The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.

-----
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CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

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Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

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[[The_importance_of_early_engagement|The importance of early engagement]]

[[File:The_importance_of_early_engagement_350.jpg|link=The_importance_of_early_engagement]]

Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.

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[[Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers|Mayors are to be given planning call in powers]]

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Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.

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The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

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[[File:MindTheGap350.jpg|link=Building_the_future_workforce]]

Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.

-----
[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel Building Safety Regulator, 19 August]

[[File:Gill_Kernick_350.jpg|link=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel]]

Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.

-----
[[Connecting_knowledge,_technology_and_conservation:_Building_competence_for_the_future_of_built_heritage|Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation]]

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Building competence for the future of built heritage.

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[[CIOB_publishes_free_building_regulations_and_Building_Safety_Act_advice_for_clients|Building Regulations and Building Safety Act]]

[[File:Building_regs_what_non_domestic_clients_need_to_know_350.jpg|link=CIOB_publishes_free_building_regulations_and_Building_Safety_Act_advice_for_clients]]

CIOB publishes free advice for non-domestic clients.

-----
[[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]]

Have your say on ECA's public affairs priorities

2026-09-01T07:31:30Z

Designing Buildings: moved Have your say on ECA’s public affairs priorities to Have your say on ECA's public affairs priorities

= Introduction =

In the summer of 2026, ECA started a Member consultation to help shape its public affairs priorities for 2027 to 2030. The consultation is intended to ensure that ECA’s work with government, civil servants and other decision makers continues to reflect what Members are seeing on the ground, the pressures they face locally, and the opportunities ahead for the electrotechnical sector.

ECA’s current priorities — [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/business-resilience Business Resilience], [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/skills-for-the-future Skills for the Future], and a [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/net-zero Safe Transition to Net Zero] — were agreed after Member consultation in 2022. Since then, they have helped focus ECA’s conversations with policy makers and strengthen its voice on the issues that matter most to Members.

There is already progress to build on. Electrification is now recognised as the fastest and safest route to net zero. ECA has pressed for action on unfair electricity taxation, secured Member representation in national skills discussions, supported regional skills work through [https://www.eca.co.uk/member-support/education-skills/local-skills-partnerships Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliances], and significantly influenced payment and retentions legislation currently going through Parliament.

ECA’s Standing Committees - Business and Policy and Practice, Technical, and Skills - have now considered the priorities for the next three-year period. Based on their feedback, ECA is proposing three high-level priorities: a skilled and competent workforce, a safe electrical future, and a resilient business environment.

= The proposed priorities =

ECA is calling for:

{|
| A skilled and competent workforce
| A safe electrical future
| A resilient business environment
|-
| Recognition that a competent electrical workforce is key to achieving clean electrification.
| Recognition that a safe electrical future is only possible with the right national infrastructure.
| Improvement in the commercial environment in which electrical contractors operate.
|-
| Evidence-based electrical workforce planning in collaboration with the electrical industry.
| Prevention of electrical risks through policy collaboration between industry and government.
| Improved payment and fair contractual practices.
|-
| Alignment of qualifications and funding with competence standards.
| Recognition of the importance of competence in electrical standards and specifications.
| SME inclusive procurement practices which are value, not cost, focused which accounts for FM, not just construction, costs.
|-
| Financial incentives for SMEs training priority occupations, such as electricians.
| Fiscal rebalancing of energy to incentivise transition to electrification.
| Reducing barriers/costs of employment.
|}

= What ECA would like Members to consider =

ECA now wants to hear whether these priorities feel right for Members in their regions and whether the wording reflects the practical pressures electrical contractors are experiencing locally.

In particular, ECA would welcome views on whether anything is missing, whether anything is overstated, and whether any of the proposed wording should be changed to better reflect Member experience.

* Do these feel like the right public affairs priorities for ECA from 2027 to 2030?
* Are there regional pressures or opportunities that should be reflected more strongly?
* Is anything missing from the proposed priorities?
* Is any wording unclear, too broad, or not ambitious enough?

= What happens next =

RECs will consider the proposed priorities at their meetings in September. Council will review and ratify the final list before the new priorities go live in 2027. Members should email [mailto:jane.dawson@eca.co.uk jane.dawson@eca.co.uk] by 14 September if they have any comments.

The consultation represents an important opportunity to keep ECA’s public affairs work rooted in Member insight, focused on the issues that matter most, and ready to support a skilled, safe and resilient electrical future.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* ECA articles.
* ECA consultations on skills.
* ECA reacts to Rishi Sunak's appointment as PM.
* ECA responds to Energy Bill Relief Scheme.
* How the Electrical Contractors' Association is acting on its member priorities.
* Industry calls for Government to prioritise reduction in electricity levies.
* Parliamentary roundtable unites industry and policy makers to drive UK electrification.

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]] [[Category:Policy]]

News from the web

2026-09-01T07:30:41Z

Designing Buildings:

Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.

-----
[[Have_your_say_on_ECAs_public_affairs_priorities|ECA's public affairs priorities]]

[[File:ECA logo blue cropped 350.jpg|link=Have_your_say_on_ECAs_public_affairs_priorities]]

Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.

-----
[[Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities|Domestic projects in Wales]]

[[File:Welsh_Gov-350.jpg|link=Domestic_projects_in_Wales:_dutyholder_responsibilities]]

Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.

-----
[[Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham|Where performance meets practice]]

[[File:Ukcw_b_350.jpg|link=Where_Performance_Meets_Practice:_The_Building_Envelope_Stage_at_UKCW_Birmingham]]

The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.

-----
[[CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform|NPPF]]

[[File:CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform_350.jpg|link=CIAT_briefing_on_NPPF_and_planning_reform]]

CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.

-----
[[Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network|Leaders in Learning for Practice Network]]

[[File:IHBC_logo_350.png|link=Leaders_in_Learning_for_Practice_Network]]

Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.

-----
[[The_importance_of_early_engagement|The importance of early engagement]]

[[File:The_importance_of_early_engagement_350.jpg|link=The_importance_of_early_engagement]]

Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.

-----
[[Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers|Mayors are to be given planning call in powers]]

[[File:10_Downing_Street_350.jpg|link=Mayors_are_to_be_given_planning_call_in_powers]]

Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.

-----
[[The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times|Sixty years in practice]]

[[File:William_butterfield_350.jpg|link=The_Master_Builder:_William_Butterfield_and_his_times]]

The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.

-----
[[Building_the_future_workforce|Building the future workforce]]

[[File:MindTheGap350.jpg|link=Building_the_future_workforce]]

Why construction can't afford to ignore the skills gap.

-----
[https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel Building Safety Regulator, 19 August]

[[File:Gill_Kernick_350.jpg|link=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/building-safety-regulator-appoints-independent-chair-of-residents-panel]]

Gill Kernick appointed Independent Chair of Residents’ Panel.

-----
[[Connecting_knowledge,_technology_and_conservation:_Building_competence_for_the_future_of_built_heritage|Connecting knowledge, technology and conservation]]

[[File:Cotac_learning_documents_350.jpg|link=Connecting_knowledge,_technology_and_conservation:_Building_competence_for_the_future_of_built_heritage]]

Building competence for the future of built heritage.

-----
[[CIOB_publishes_free_building_regulations_and_Building_Safety_Act_advice_for_clients|Building Regulations and Building Safety Act]]

[[File:Building_regs_what_non_domestic_clients_need_to_know_350.jpg|link=CIOB_publishes_free_building_regulations_and_Building_Safety_Act_advice_for_clients]]

CIOB publishes free advice for non-domestic clients.

-----
[[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]]

Have your say on ECA's public affairs priorities

2026-09-01T07:28:41Z

Designing Buildings:

Have your say on ECA's public affairs priorities

2026-09-01T07:28:16Z

Designing Buildings:

= Introduction =

In the summer of 2026, ECA started a Member consultation to help shape its public affairs priorities for 2027 to 2030. The consultation is intended to ensure that ECA’s work with government, civil servants and other decision makers continues to reflect what Members are seeing on the ground, the pressures they face locally, and the opportunities ahead for the electrotechnical sector.

ECA’s current priorities — [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/business-resilience Business Resilience], [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/skills-for-the-future Skills for the Future], and a [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/net-zero Safe Transition to Net Zero] — were agreed after Member consultation in 2022. Since then, they have helped focus ECA’s conversations with policy makers and strengthen its voice on the issues that matter most to Members.

There is already progress to build on. Electrification is now recognised as the fastest and safest route to net zero. ECA has pressed for action on unfair electricity taxation, secured Member representation in national skills discussions, supported regional skills work through [https://www.eca.co.uk/member-support/education-skills/local-skills-partnerships Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliances], and significantly influenced payment and retentions legislation currently going through Parliament.

ECA’s Standing Committees - Business and Policy and Practice, Technical, and Skills - have now considered the priorities for the next three-year period. Based on their feedback, ECA is proposing three high-level priorities: a skilled and competent workforce, a safe electrical future, and a resilient business environment.

= The proposed priorities =

A skilled and competent workforce A safe electrical future A resilient business environment

ECA is calling for:

{|
|width="33%"| A skilled and competent workforce
|width="33%"| A safe electrical future
|width="33%"| A resilient business environment
|-
| Recognition that a competent electrical workforce is key to achieving clean electrification.
| Recognition that a safe electrical future is only possible with the right national infrastructure.
| Improvement in the commercial environment in which electrical contractors operate.
|-
| Evidence-based electrical workforce planning in collaboration with the electrical industry.
| Prevention of electrical risks through policy collaboration between industry and government.
| Improved payment and fair contractual practices.
|-
| Alignment of qualifications and funding with competence standards.
| Recognition of the importance of competence in electrical standards and specifications.
| SME inclusive procurement practices which are value, not cost, focused which accounts for FM, not just construction, costs.
|-
| Financial incentives for SMEs training priority occupations, such as electricians.
| Fiscal rebalancing of energy to incentivise transition to electrification.
| Reducing barriers/costs of employment.
|}

= What ECA would like Members to consider =

ECA now wants to hear whether these priorities feel right for Members in their regions and whether the wording reflects the practical pressures electrical contractors are experiencing locally.

In particular, ECA would welcome views on whether anything is missing, whether anything is overstated, and whether any of the proposed wording should be changed to better reflect Member experience.

* Do these feel like the right public affairs priorities for ECA from 2027 to 2030?
* Are there regional pressures or opportunities that should be reflected more strongly?
* Is anything missing from the proposed priorities?
* Is any wording unclear, too broad, or not ambitious enough?

= What happens next =

RECs will consider the proposed priorities at their meetings in September. Council will review and ratify the final list before the new priorities go live in 2027. Members should email [mailto:jane.dawson@eca.co.uk jane.dawson@eca.co.uk] by 14 September if they have any comments.

The consultation represents an important opportunity to keep ECA’s public affairs work rooted in Member insight, focused on the issues that matter most, and ready to support a skilled, safe and resilient electrical future.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* ECA articles.
* ECA consultations on skills.
* ECA reacts to Rishi Sunak's appointment as PM.
* ECA responds to Energy Bill Relief Scheme.
* How the Electrical Contractors' Association is acting on its member priorities.
* Industry calls for Government to prioritise reduction in electricity levies.
* Parliamentary roundtable unites industry and policy makers to drive UK electrification.

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]] [[Category:Policy]]

Have your say on ECA's public affairs priorities

2026-09-01T07:26:30Z

Designing Buildings: Created page with "= Introduction = In the summer of 2026, ECA started a Member consultation to help shape its public affairs priorities for 2027 to 2030. The consultation is intended to ensure th..."

= Introduction =

In the summer of 2026, ECA started a Member consultation to help shape its public affairs priorities for 2027 to 2030. The consultation is intended to ensure that ECA’s work with government, civil servants and other decision makers continues to reflect what Members are seeing on the ground, the pressures they face locally, and the opportunities ahead for the electrotechnical sector.

ECA’s current priorities — [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/business-resilience Business Resilience], [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/skills-for-the-future Skills for the Future], and a [https://www.eca.co.uk/taking-action/net-zero Safe Transition to Net Zero] — were agreed after Member consultation in 2022. Since then, they have helped focus ECA’s conversations with policy makers and strengthen its voice on the issues that matter most to Members.

There is already progress to build on. Electrification is now recognised as the fastest and safest route to net zero. ECA has pressed for action on unfair electricity taxation, secured Member representation in national skills discussions, supported regional skills work through [https://www.eca.co.uk/member-support/education-skills/local-skills-partnerships Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliances], and significantly influenced payment and retentions legislation currently going through Parliament.

ECA’s Standing Committees - Business and Policy and Practice, Technical, and Skills - have now considered the priorities for the next three-year period. Based on their feedback, ECA is proposing three high-level priorities: a skilled and competent workforce, a safe electrical future, and a resilient business environment.

= The proposed priorities =

A skilled and competent workforce A safe electrical future A resilient business environment

ECA is calling for:

Recognition that a competent electrical workforce is key to achieving clean electrification.

Recognition that a safe electrical future is only possible with the right national infrastructure.

Improvement in the commercial environment in which electrical contractors operate.

Evidence-based electrical workforce planning in collaboration with the electrical industry.

Prevention of electrical risks through policy collaboration between industry and government.

Improved payment and fair contractual practices.

Alignment of qualifications and funding with competence standards.

Recognition of the importance of competence in electrical standards and specifications.

SME-inclusive procurement practices which are value, not cost, focused and account for FM, not just construction, costs.

Financial incentives for SMEs training priority occupations, such as electricians.

Fiscal rebalancing of energy to incentivise transition to electrification.

Reducing barriers and costs of employment.

= What ECA would like Members to consider =

ECA now wants to hear whether these priorities feel right for Members in their regions and whether the wording reflects the practical pressures electrical contractors are experiencing locally.

In particular, ECA would welcome views on whether anything is missing, whether anything is overstated, and whether any of the proposed wording should be changed to better reflect Member experience.

* Do these feel like the right public affairs priorities for ECA from 2027 to 2030?
* Are there regional pressures or opportunities that should be reflected more strongly?
* Is anything missing from the proposed priorities?
* Is any wording unclear, too broad, or not ambitious enough?

= What happens next =

RECs will consider the proposed priorities at their meetings in September. Council will review and ratify the final list before the new priorities go live in 2027. Members should email [mailto:jane.dawson@eca.co.uk jane.dawson@eca.co.uk] by 14 September if they have any comments.

The consultation represents an important opportunity to keep ECA’s public affairs work rooted in Member insight, focused on the issues that matter most, and ready to support a skilled, safe and resilient electrical future.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* ECA articles.
* ECA consultations on skills.
* ECA joins voices calling for joined-up policy approach.
* ECA reacts to Rishi Sunak's appointment as PM.
* ECA responds to Energy Bill Relief Scheme.
* How the Electrical Contractors' Association is acting on its member priorities.
* Industry calls for Government to prioritise reduction in electricity levies.
* Parliamentary roundtable unites industry and policy makers to drive UK electrification.

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_News]] [[Category:News]] [[Category:Policy]]