Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

Climate Change Act

2022-06-19T09:37:56Z

Needleandmortar:

= Introduction =

The [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2008/27/contents Climate Change Act] was introduced in 2008. It was the first time a country had introduced a legally binding framework for tackling climate change.

The Act is very wide-ranging. It sets legally-binding targets, creates new powers, changes the institutional framework, establishes systems to ensure accountability and addresses resilience to climate change.

The key provision is the creation of a legally binding commitment to cut emissions of greenhouse gasses by at least 34% by 2020 and by 80% by 2050 compared with 1990 levels—later changed in 2019 to the more ambitious target of 100%. The Act also requires the Government to publish carbon budgets setting five-yearly caps on greenhouse gas emissions.

Other specific measures include:

* The establishment of the Climate Change Committee (CCC) - formerly referred to as the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) - to advise Government and report annually to Parliament.
* The preparation of a Low Carbon Transition Plan to report policies and proposals to Parliament.
* Special measures relating to the introduction of domestic emissions trading schemes.
* Amendments to the Energy Act in relation to renewable transport fuels (biofuels), see Schedule 7 of the Act.
* The power to introduce pilot finance incentive schemes for household waste.
* Powers relating to charges for single use carrier bags.
* Policies in relation to corporate reporting of emissions (see [http://ww2.defra.gov.uk/environment/economy/business-efficiency/reporting/ The contribution that reporting of greenhouse gas emissions makes to the UK meeting its climate change objectives]).
* A requirement to publish an annual [http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/state-estate-2011 State of the Estate] report the efficiency and sustainability of the Government's civil estate.
* The establishment of the [http://www.theccc.org.uk/about-the-ccc/adaptation-sub-committee Adaptation Sub-Committee] (ASC) as to advise the Committee on Climate Change in relation to climate risks.
* A requirement to carry out a [http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/climate/government/risk-assessment/ Climate Change Risk Assessment] (CCRA) every 5 years.
* A requirement to prepare a [http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/climate/government/nap/ National Adaptation Programme] to address the risks identified in the CCRA (to be reviewed every five years).
* The power to require public authorities and statutory undertakers to report on how they have assessed the risks of climate change, and what they are doing to address those risks.

There are concerns about the cost of achieving the targets set out by the Act, and whether, if the targets become unachievable, the Act will simply be scrapped. There have already been some calls to repeal the Act, but after a review of all legislation with a view to cutting red tape, the Government appears to have confirmed its commitment to the Climate Change Act.

= Progress =

== 2012 ==

There is some suggestion that at present, carbon emissions are not falling fast enough and that this will be exacerbated by continuing population growth in the UK. In 2012, the CCC suggested that the pace of measures to reduce emissions needs to increase fourfold if the Climate Change Act commitments are to be met (see Meeting the Carbon Budgets - 2012 Progress Report to Parliament).

== 2018 ==

In October 2018, the government wrote to the CCC asking for advice about a roadmap to a net zero economy, including how emissions might be reduced and the expected costs and benefits of doing so. Ref [https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-climate-targets-request-for-advice-from-the-committee-on-climate-change https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-climate-targets-request-for-advice-from-the-committee-on-climate-change]

== Net zero target ==

On 2 May 2019, 10 years after the Climate Change Act became law, the CCC published a report suggesting the UK can end its contribution to global warming by setting a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050. [https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/net-zero-the-uks-contribution-to-stopping-global-warming/ Net Zero – The UK’s contribution to stopping global warming] was requested by the UK, Scottish and Welsh Governments in light of the Paris Agreement and the IPCC’s Special Report in 2018.

The target is referred to as ‘net zero’ as it would be met by some sources of emissions being offset by removal of CO2 from the atmosphere – by growing trees, for example.

The report suggest that:

* The foundations are in place to implement the policy throughout the UK.
* Policies will have to ramp up significantly for a ‘net-zero’ emissions target to be credible.
* The overall costs of the transition to a net-zero economy are manageable.

Lord Deben, Chairman of the Committee on Climate Change, said: “We can all see that the climate is changing and it needs a serious response. The great news is that it is not only possible for the UK to play its full part – we explain how in our new report – but it can be done within the cost envelope that Parliament has already accepted. The Government should accept the recommendations and set about making the changes needed to deliver them without delay.”

Julie Hirigoyen, chief executive at UKGBC said: "Today's report marks a watershed moment in our efforts to tackle climate change. The UK must take responsibility as a global leader to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and the building sector has a crucial role to play in this transition. According to WorldGBC, achieving this will require all new buildings to be net zero carbon by 2030 and all existing ones by 2050 – which will require outstanding levels of energy efficiency alongside zero carbon electricity and heat supplies."

Ref [https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/net-zero-the-uks-contribution-to-stopping-global-warming/ https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/net-zero-the-uks-contribution-to-stopping-global-warming/]

On 12 June 2019 Prime Minister Theresa May announced the UK will ‘eradicate’ its net contribution to climate change by 2050. The statutory instrument to implement this policy was was laid in Parliament to amend the Climate Change Act 2008. For more information see: Net zero carbon 2050.

== 2019 progress report ==

On 10 July 2019, CCC published a damning assessment of progress in preparing for climate change in England. The report suggested that the priority given to climate adaptation has been eroded over the past ten years and that England is still not prepared for even a 2°C rise in global temperature, let alone more extreme levels of warming. Ref [https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/progress-in-preparing-for-climate-change-2019-progress-report-to-parliament/ https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/progress-in-preparing-for-climate-change-2019-progress-report-to-parliament/]

John Alker, Director of Policy & Places, UKGBC, said: “It is time for the Government to wake up on climate action. Having loudly trumpeted the UK's global leadership credentials in setting a net zero target, today's report has laid bare the scale of the challenge and how far we are currently falling short."

== 2020 progress report ==

On 9 December 2020, CCC presented its detailed route map for a fully decarbonised nation. [https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/sixth-carbon-budget/ The Sixth Carbon Budget (2033-2037)] charts the decisive move to zero carbon for the UK. The CCC shows that polluting emissions must fall by almost 80% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels – a big step-up in ambition.

To deliver this, a major investment programme across the country must be delivered, in large measure by the private sector. That investment will also be the key to the UK’s economic recovery in the next decade. In many areas, this gives people real savings, as the nation uses fewer resources and adopts cleaner, more-efficient technologies, like electric cars, to replace their fossil-fuelled predecessors. The CCC finds that these savings substantially reduce the cost of net zero compared with previous assessments: now down to less than 1% of GDP throughout the next 30 years. This is thanks, not only to the falling cost of offshore wind but also a range of new low cost, low-carbon solutions in every sector.

The Sixth Carbon Budget can be met through four key steps:

# Take up of low-carbon solutions. People and businesses will choose to adopt low-carbon solutions, as high carbon options are progressively phased out. By the early 2030s all new cars and vans and all boiler replacements in homes and other buildings are low-carbon – largely electric. By 2040 all new trucks are low-carbon. UK industry shifts to using renewable electricity or hydrogen instead of fossil fuels, or captures its carbon emissions, storing them safely under the sea.
# Expansion of low-carbon energy supplies. UK electricity production is zero carbon by 2035. Offshore wind becomes the backbone of the whole UK energy system, growing from the Prime Minister’s promised 40GW in 2030 to 100GW or more by 2050. New uses for this clean electricity are found in transport, heating and industry, pushing up electricity demand by a half over the next 15 years, and doubling or even trebling demand by 2050. Low-carbon hydrogen scales-up to be almost as large, in 2050, as electricity production is today. Hydrogen is used as a shipping and transport fuel and in industry, and potentially in some buildings, as a replacement for natural gas for heating.
# Reducing demand for carbon-intensive activities. The UK wastes fewer resources and reduces its reliance on high-carbon goods. Buildings lose less energy through a national programme to improve insulation across the UK. Diets change, reducing our consumption of high-carbon meat and dairy products by 20% by 2030, with further reductions in later years. There are fewer car miles travelled and demand for flights grows more slowly. These changes bring striking positive benefits for health and well-being.
# Land and greenhouse gas removals. There is a transformation in agriculture and the use of farmland while maintaining the same levels of food per head produced in 2020. By 2035, 460,000 hectares of new mixed woodland are planted to remove CO2 and deliver wider environmental benefits. 260,000 hectares of farmland shifts to producing energy crops. Woodland rises from 13% of UK land in 2020 to 15% by 2035 and 18% by 2050. Peatlands are widely restored and managed sustainably.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

* Achieving zero carbon.
* Architects Declare.
* Blue hydrogen.
* BSRIA Briefing 2021.
* Carbon emissions.
* Carbon plan.
* CIOB responds to Sixth Carbon Budget.
* Civil engineers must report climate-change risk.
* Climate change science.
* Climate Change Levy.
* Climate target revisions for Carbon Budget 6.
* COP21 Paris 2015.
* CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme.
* Decarbonising concrete in the UK.
* ECA calls for urgent energy price reform.
* Energy Act.
* Emission rates.
* Energy related products regulations.
* Energy targets.
* England metro mayors work to deliver ambitious climate action.
* Environment Bill 2020.
* Environmental policy.
* Environmental Protection Act.
* Gas Goes Green.
* Greenhouse gases.
* Happold lecture on climate change.
* Keeping 1.5°C Alive: Closing the Gap in the 2020s.
* Kyoto protocol.
* National Adaptation Programme.
* Net zero carbon 2050.
* Resilience of UK infrastructure and climate predictions.
* SO2 Scrubbers.
* Sustainability.
* Sustainable Development Goals and the triple bottom line.
* Taking action on climate change.
* The Carbon Plan: Delivering our low carbon future.
* The Low Carbon Transition Plan: National strategy for climate and energy.
* Thermal imaging of the building fabric in the net zero world.
* UK Climate Change Risk Assessment.
* UKGBC publishes renewable energy procurement and carbon offsetting guidance.
* WFEO Climate Stories: How climate change is affecting the UK.
* Why all civil engineers should sign up to this pledge.
* Zero carbon homes.
* Zero carbon non-domestic buildings.

= External references =

* [http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2008/27/contents The Act in full].
* Department of Energy & Climate Change: [http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/legislation/cc_act_08/cc_act_08.aspx Climate change act 2008].
* [http://www.decc.gov.uk/ Department of Energy & Climate Change].
* CCC: [http://www.theccc.org.uk/reports/ Building a low-carbon economy].
* CCC, [https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/sixth-carbon-budget/ Sixth Carbon Budget].
* [http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Environment/climatechange/scotlands-action/climatechangeact Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009].
* DEFRA: [http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/climate/science/ Climate science and research].
* DEFRA: [http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/climate/adapting/ Adapting to climate change].
* DEFRA: [http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/climate/sectors/infrastructure-companies/ Advice for infrastructure companies].
* ECA responds to the UK hydrogen strategy.
* The Edge Debate: [http://www.edgedebate.com/?p=1827 The Politics of Carbon Emissions Data].
* Cabinet office: [http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/resource-library/state-estate-2011 State of the Estate 2011]. Published in May 2012.

[[Category:DCN_Definition]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Legislation]] [[Category:DCN_Policy]] [[Category:Other_legislation]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

CityTrees

2018-03-20T12:19:46Z

Needleandmortar:

[[File:Citytree3.jpg|link=File:Citytree3.jpg]]

In March 2018 a 'CityTree' was installed on London's Glasshouse Street, near Piccadilly Circus to highlight the risks of air pollution. This coincided with the publication of a joint report by four Parliamentary select committees which concluded that UK air pollution causes 40,000 deaths and costs the economy £20 billion a year.

Green City Solutions, Proambiente and the Italian city of Modena joined forces in Spring 2017 to initiate the ‘CityTree Scaler’; a project supported by Climate-KIC Germany (the biggest EU innovation initiative for climate-friendly technologies). The consortium was formed to prove the effectiveness of a new smart biotechnological filter for tackling urban air pollution.

The consortium have also installed six CityTrees on the most polluted street in Modena.

[[File:Citytree2.jpg|link=File:Citytree2.jpg]]

Developed by German start-up, Green City Solutions, CityTrees combine cutting-edge internet of things (IoT) technology with moss cultures and plants that ‘eat’ air pollution. They claim that a CityTree has the same environmental impact as 275 urban trees but requires only 3 sq. m of space.

The sculptural structures contain plants capable of removing dust, nitrogen dioxide and ozone from the air. The units are also remarkably self-sufficient. IoT sensors measure environmental data, and solar panel technology and a rainwater collecting system, mean that the nutrition, water and minerals required by the plants can be regulated automatically, requiring only a few hours maintenance a year.

WiFi, iBeacon, NFC and digital screens also allow CityTrees to transmit digital and visual information, and companies can pay to advertise on them by adding lighting, logos or LED panels.

The technology behind the CityTree is a result of more than a decade’s research at the Dresden University of Technology, Lancaster University and University of Bonn. It is hoped that the project will prove CityTrees offset 240 tonnes of CO2 equivalents a year.

[[File:Citytree1.jpg|link=File:Citytree1.jpg]]

Victor Splittgerber, CTO and co-founder of Green City Solutions, said: “The project will help us to obtain important insights of the effectiveness of our smart plant filters. The results will help us to prove the estimated results of the laboratory tests. We see the CityTree as an essential part of future environmental urban planning. Therefore the next logical step is the testing over a longer period under real urban conditions."

For more information, see [http://www.greencitysolutions.co.uk/ Green City Solutions].

Content and images courtesy of Green City Solutions.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Air quality.
* Biodiversity.
* Green roof.
* Greenhouse gas.
* Living façade.
* Rain garden.
* Ultra Low Emission Zone.
* Vertical Forest.

[[Category:Projects_and_case_studies]] [[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Sustainability]] [[Category:News]]

Talk:Stair design

2017-08-11T10:40:23Z

Needleandmortar:

In designing staircases, in particular residential work, thought must be given to access for furniture. Spiral staircases for instance are a real problem for bedroom furniture and windows may not have big enough openings for alternative access.

-----
The regulations regarding stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats is so confusing.

Starting with Part M, section M4(1) paragraph 1.12 says:

1.12 The principal communal stairs that give access to the dwelling should comply with one of the following:

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does not have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a general access stair.

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a utility stair.

However, if we go to Part K, section 1, there is no specification of stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats. Under “Width of flights of stairs” we only have two options:

For buildings other than dwellings

1.14 For stairs that form part of means of escape, refer to Approved Document B: Fire safety, Volume 2 – Buildings other than dwelling houses.

1.15 For flights of stairs which do not form part of the means of escape, provide all of the following.

- A minimum stair width between enclosing walls, strings or upstands of 1200mm.

- A minimum width between handrails of 1000mm.

For dwellings

1.16 In exceptional circumstances where severely sloping plots are involved, a stepped change of level within the entrance storey may be unavoidable. In those instances ensure that stairs within the entrance storey of a dwelling have flights with a minimum stair width of 900mm.

So paragraph 1.14 refers us to Part B, and under Part B Means of Escape from Flats, Width of common stairs, it says:

2.33 A stair of acceptable width for everyday use will be suf cient for escape purposes, but if it is also a fire-fighting stair, it should be at least 1100mm wide (see Appendix C for measurement of width).

So we know from Appendix C that stair width in Part B is defined as being "clear width between the walls or balustrades”.

But, the question is, what is an "acceptable width for everyday use”?

--[[User:Needleandmortar|Needleandmortar]] 11:25, 11 Aug 2017 (BST)

-----
To muddy the waters a little more there's Part K1 paragraph 1.18 which is headed up "For buildings other than dwellings and common access areas in buildings that contain flats". Now, does that mean "other than common access areas in buildings that contain flats" or does it mean "for common access areas in buildings that contain flats". I interpret it as the former.

--[[User:Needleandmortar|Needleandmortar]] 11:40, 11 Aug 2017 (BST)

Talk:Stair design

2017-08-11T10:31:40Z

Needleandmortar:

Talk:Stair design

2017-08-11T10:29:23Z

Needleandmortar:

In designing staircases, in particular residential work, thought must be given to access for furniture. Spiral staircases for instance are a real problem for bedroom furniture and windows may not have big enough openings for alternative access.

-----
The regulations regarding stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats is so confusing.

Starting with Part M, section M4(1) paragraph 1.12 says:

1.12 The principal communal stairs that give access to the dwelling should comply with one of the following:

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does not have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a general access stair.

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a utility stair.

However, if we go to Part K, section 1, there is no specification of stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats. Under “Width of flights of stairs” we only have two options:

For buildings other than dwellings

1.14 For stairs that form part of means of escape, refer to Approved Document B: Fire safety, Volume 2 – Buildings other than dwelling houses.

1.15 For flights of stairs which do not form part of the means of escape, provide all of the following.

- A minimum stair width between enclosing walls, strings or upstands of 1200mm.

- A minimum width between handrails of 1000mm.

For dwellings

1.16 In exceptional circumstances where severely sloping plots are involved, a stepped change of level within the entrance storey may be unavoidable. In those instances ensure that stairs within the entrance storey of a dwelling have flights with a minimum stair width of 900mm.

So paragraph 1.14 refers us to Part B, and under Part B Means of Escape from Flats, Width of common stairs, it says:

2.33 A stair of acceptable width for everyday use will be suf cient for escape purposes, but if it is also a fire-fighting stair, it should be at least 1100mm wide (see Appendix C for measurement of width).

So we know from Appendix C that stair width in Part B is defined as being "clear width between the walls or balustrades”.

But, the question for you is, what is an "acceptable width for everyday use”?

--[[User:Needleandmortar|Needleandmortar]] 11:25, 11 Aug 2017 (BST)

Talk:Stair design

2017-08-11T10:28:41Z

Needleandmortar:

In designing staircases, in particular residential work, thought must be given to access for furniture. Spiral staircases for instance are a real problem for bedroom furniture and windows may not have big enough openings for alternative access.

-----
The regulations regarding stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats is so confusing.

=== Starting with Part M, section M4(1) paragraph 1.12 says: ===

1.12 The principal communal stairs that give access to the dwelling should comply with one of the following:

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does not have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a general access stair.

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a utility stair.

=== However, if we go to Part K, section 1, there is no specification of stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats. Under “Width of flights of stairs” we only have two options: ===

For buildings other than dwellings

1.14 For stairs that form part of means of escape, refer to Approved Document B: Fire safety, Volume 2 – Buildings other than dwelling houses.

1.15 For flights of stairs which do not form part of the means of escape, provide all of the following.

- A minimum stair width between enclosing walls, strings or upstands of 1200mm.

- A minimum width between handrails of 1000mm.

For dwellings

1.16 In exceptional circumstances where severely sloping plots are involved, a stepped change of level within the entrance storey may be unavoidable. In those instances ensure that stairs within the entrance storey of a dwelling have flights with a minimum stair width of 900mm.

=== So paragraph 1.14 refers us to Part B, and under Part B Means of Escape from Flats, Width of common stairs, it says: ===

2.33 A stair of acceptable width for everyday use will be suf cient for escape purposes, but if it is also a fire-fighting stair, it should be at least 1100mm wide (see Appendix C for measurement of width).

So we know from Appendix C that stair width in Part B is defined as being "clear width between the walls or balustrades”.

=== But, the question for you is, what is an "acceptable width for everyday use”? ===

--[[User:Needleandmortar|Needleandmortar]] 11:25, 11 Aug 2017 (BST)

Talk:Stair design

2017-08-11T10:26:48Z

Needleandmortar:

In designing staircases, in particular residential work, thought must be given to access for furniture. Spiral staircases for instance are a real problem for bedroom furniture and windows may not have big enough openings for alternative access.

-----
The regulations regarding stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats is so confusing.

Starting with Part M, section M4(1) paragraph 1.12 says:

1.12 The principal communal stairs that give access to the dwelling should comply with one of the following:

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does not have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a general access stair.

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a utility stair.

However, if we go to Part K, section 1, there is no specification of stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats. Under “Width of flights of stairs” we only have two options:

For buildings other than dwellings

1.14 For stairs that form part of means of escape, refer to Approved Document B: Fire safety, Volume 2 – Buildings other than dwelling houses.

1.15 For flights of stairs which do not form part of the means of escape, provide all of the following.

- A minimum stair width between enclosing walls, strings or upstands of 1200mm.

- A minimum width between handrails of 1000mm.

For dwellings

1.16 In exceptional circumstances where severely sloping plots are involved, a stepped change of level within the entrance storey may be unavoidable. In those instances ensure that stairs within the entrance storey of a dwelling have flights with a minimum stair width of 900mm.

So paragraph 1.14 refers us to Part B, and under Part B Means of Escape from Flats, Width of common stairs, it says:

2.33 A stair of acceptable width for everyday use will be suf cient for escape purposes, but if it is also a fire-fighting stair, it should be at least 1100mm wide (see Appendix C for measurement of width).

So we know from Appendix C that stair width in Part B is defined as being "clear width between the walls or balustrades”.

But, the question for you is, what is an "acceptable width for everyday use”?

--[[User:Needleandmortar|Needleandmortar]] 11:25, 11 Aug 2017 (BST)

Talk:Stair design

2017-08-11T10:25:36Z

Needleandmortar:

In designing staircases, in particular residential work, thought must be given to access for furniture. Spiral staircases for instance are a real problem for bedroom furniture and windows may not have big enough openings for alternative access.

-----
The regulations regarding stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats is so confusing.

Starting with Part M, section M4(1) paragraph 1.12 says:

1.12 The principal communal stairs that give access to the dwelling should comply with one of the following:

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does not have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a general access stair.

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a utility stair.

However, if we go to Part K, section 1, there is no specification of stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats. Under “Width of flights of stairs” we only have two options:

For buildings other than dwellings

1.14 For stairs that form part of means of escape, refer to Approved Document B: Fire safety, Volume 2 – Buildings other than dwelling houses.

1.15 For flights of stairs which do not form part of the means of escape, provide all of the following.

- A minimum stair width between enclosing walls, strings or upstands of 1200mm.

- A minimum width between handrails of 1000mm.

For dwellings

1.16 In exceptional circumstances where severely sloping plots are involved, a stepped change of level within the entrance storey may be unavoidable. In those instances ensure that stairs within the entrance storey of a dwelling have flights with a minimum stair width of 900mm.

So paragraph 1.14 refers us to Part B, and under Part B Means of Escape from Flats, Width of common stairs, it says:

2.33 A stair of acceptable width for everyday use will be suf cient for escape purposes, but if it is also a fire-fighting stair, it should be at least 1100mm wide (see Appendix C for measurement of width).

So we know from Appendix C that stair width in Part B is defined as being "clear width between the walls or balustrades”.

But, the question for you is, what is an "acceptable width for everyday use”?

--[[User:Needleandmortar|Needleandmortar]] 11:25, 11 Aug 2017 (BST)

Talk:Stair design

2017-08-11T10:23:58Z

Needleandmortar:

In designing staircases, in particular residential work, thought must be given to access for furniture. Spiral staircases for instance are a real problem for bedroom furniture and windows may not have big enough openings for alternative access.

-----
The regulations regarding stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats is so confusing.

Starting with Part M, section M4(1) paragraph 1.12 says:

1.12 The principal communal stairs that give access to the dwelling should comply with one of the following:

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does not have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a general access stair.

- Where the dwelling is on an upper floor and does have lift access, the stair meets the requirements of Part K for a utility stair.

However, if we go to Part K, section 1, there is no specification of stair width for communal stairs in blocks of flats. Under “Width of flights of stairs” we only have two options:

For buildings other than dwellings

1.14 For stairs that form part of means of escape, refer to Approved Document B: Fire safety, Volume 2 – Buildings other than dwelling houses.

1.15 For flights of stairs which do not form part of the means of escape, provide all of the following.

- A minimum stair width between enclosing walls, strings or upstands of 1200mm.

- A minimum width between handrails of 1000mm.

and For dwellings

1.16 In exceptional circumstances where severely sloping plots are involved, a stepped change of level within the entrance storey may be unavoidable. In those instances ensure that stairs within the entrance storey of a dwelling have flights with a minimum stair width of 900mm.

So paragraph 1.14 refers us to Part B.

So 1.14 sends us to Part B, and under Means of Escape from Flats, Width of common stairs, it says:

2.33 A stair of acceptable width for everyday use will be suf cient for escape purposes, but if it is also a fire-fighting stair, it should be at least 1100mm wide (see Appendix C for measurement of width).

So we know from Appendix C that stair width in Part B is defined as being "clear width between the walls or balustrades”.

So, the question for you is, what is an "acceptable width for everyday use”?

Supplementary planning guidance for London SPG

2016-04-22T09:06:05Z

Needleandmortar:

The London Plan is a statutory strategy required by the Greater London Authority Act 1999. It is prepared by the Mayor of London and provides a spatial development strategy setting out an economic, environmental, transport and social framework for the development of London.

The Mayor also publishes [https://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance] (SPG) for London which provides additional details on policies set out in the London Plan. A range of Best Practice Guidance (BPG’s) are also published.

Supplementary Planning Guidance is provided where the level of guidance required is too detailed for inclusion in the development plan, or if a rapid policy response is needed to an emerging issue. It provides support for statutory development plans, but carries less weight than them when planning matters are considered and cannot create new policies.

Supplementary Planning Guidance includes:

* Accessible London: Achieving an Inclusive Environment.
* The control of dust and emissions during construction and demolition.
* Town Centres.
* Shaping Neighbourhoods: Character and Context.
* Social infrastructure supplementary planning guidance.
* London Planning Statement.
* Sustainable Design and Construction.
* Safeguarded Wharves Review.
* Preparing Borough Tree and Woodland Strategies.
* Housing.
* Use of planning obligations in the funding of Crossrail, and the Mayoral Community Infrastructure Levy.
* Land for Industry and Transport.
* Shaping Neighbourhoods: Play and Informal Recreation.
* Olympic Legacy Supplementary Planning Guidance.
* Vauxhall Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area Planning Framework.
* All London Green Grid.
* London View Management Framework.
* London's Foundations.
* London World Heritage Sites - Guidance on Settings.
* East London Green Grid Framework.
* Planning for Equality and Diversity in London.
* Sustainable Design and Construction.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Accessible London.
* Central activities zone supplementary planning guidance.
* Draft London Housing Strategy (blog November 2013).
* GLA Housing Design SPG.
* Local plan.
* London plan.
* London View Management Framework.
* Planning permission.
* Social infrastructure supplementary planning guidance.
* Supplementary planning documents.

=== External references ===

* GLA [https://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance].

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Supplementary planning guidance for London SPG

2016-04-22T09:05:40Z

Needleandmortar:

The London Plan is a statutory strategy required by the Greater London Authority Act 1999. It is prepared by the Mayor of London and provides a spatial development strategy setting out an economic, environmental, transport and social framework for the development of London.

The Mayor also publishes [https://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance] (SPG) for London which provides additional details on policies set out in the London Plan. A range of Best Practice Guidance (BPG’s) are also published.

Supplementary Planning Guidance is provided where the level of guidance required is too detailed for inclusion in the development plan, or if a rapid policy response is needed to an emerging issue. It provides support for statutory development plans, but carries less weight than them when planning matters are considered and cannot create new policies.

Supplementary Planning Guidance includes:

* Accessible London: Achieving an Inclusive Environment.
* The control of dust and emissions during construction and demolition.
* Town Centres.
* Shaping Neighbourhoods: Character and Context.
* Social infrastructure supplementary planning guidance.
* London Planning Statement.
* Sustainable Design and Construction.
* Safeguarded Wharves Review.
* Preparing Borough Tree and Woodland Strategies.
* Housing.
* Use of planning obligations in the funding of Crossrail, and the Mayoral Community Infrastructure Levy.
* Land for Industry and Transport.
* Shaping Neighbourhoods: Play and Informal Recreation.
* Olympic Legacy Supplementary Planning Guidance.
* Vauxhall Nine Elms Battersea Opportunity Area Planning Framework.
* All London Green Grid.
* London View Management Framework.
* London's Foundations.
* London World Heritage Sites - Guidance on Settings.
* East London Green Grid Framework.
* Planning for Equality and Diversity in London.
* Sustainable Design and Construction.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Accessible London.
* Central activities zone supplementary planning guidance.
* Draft London Housing Strategy (blog November 2013).
* GLA Housing Design SPG.
* Local plan.
* London plan.
* London View Management Framework.
* Planning permission.
* Social infrastructure supplementary planning guidance.
* Supplementary planning documents.

=== External references ===

* GLA [https://www.london.gov.uk/priorities/planning/supplementary-planning-guidance Supplementary Planning Guidance].

Test

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Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery MVHR

2016-01-12T17:21:12Z

Needleandmortar:

See also: Exhaust air heat pump.

Ventilation is necessary in buildings to remove ‘stale’ air and replace it with ‘fresh’ air:

* Helping to moderate internal temperatures.
* Replenishing oxygen.
* Reducing the accumulation of moisture, odours, bacteria, dust, carbon dioxide, smoke and other contaminants that can build up during occupied periods.
* Creating air movement which improves the comfort of occupants.

Very broadly, ventilation in buildings can be classified as ‘natural’ or ‘mechanical’.

* Mechanical (or ‘forced’) ventilation tends to be driven by fans.
* Natural ventilation is driven by ‘natural’ pressure differences from one part of the building to another.

Traditionally, many buildings were ventilated largely by natural ventilation or 'infiltration', with fresh air entering spaces when doors or windows were opened, or through gaps in the fabric of the building. However, as the building regulations have become increasingly strict, and build quality has improved, buildings have become more air-tight and ventilation is increasingly provided mechanically.

To reduce the heat lost to the outside as a result of this mechanical ventilation, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) can be used.

Approved Document F, of the building regulations ‘Means of ventilation’ describes mechanical ventilation with heat recovery as, ‘continuous mechanical supply and extract with heat recovery’. It is commonly used in housing to extract stale air and supply fresh air whilst recovering up to 95% of heat that would otherwise have been lost from the extract air and using it to pre-heat the supply air.

Whole-house, or multi-room MVHR involves installing ductwork to each room, typically in ceiling voids, and running these ducts to a heat recovery unit, often located in the loft space. Air is continually extracted from rooms that might be warm and humid, such as bathrooms and kitchens. This is passed through a heat exchanger in the heat recovery unit where ‘waste’ heat is recovered from the air before it is rejected to the outside. The heat exchanger uses the recovered heat to ‘temper’ incoming fresh air that is used to supply the non-humid ‘habitable’ rooms such as bedrooms and living rooms. Tempering the incoming air reduces the need for heating, and so reduces energy use.

The standard, background level of ventilation can be boosted manually or automatically when bathrooms or kitchens are in use. The heat exchanger can be by-passed in warmer conditions so that the fresh supply air remains cool. Typically filters will be included in the system to remove potential pollutants such as pollen and dust form the supply air.

Care must be taken when installing MHVR to ensure that ducts do not provide a flanking route for noise to transmit between spaces. It is also important to properly size and locate the heat recovery unit and ductwork so that any sound generated by the system itself is minimal.

MVHR has become popular in new homes, but installation in existing properties can be disruptive due to the routing of ducts throughout the property.

Regular maintenance is required to ensure that fans are operating correctly and filters remain clean.

=== Optimised ductwork design ===

MVHR ductwork should be arranged so the connection to the world is as short as possible. Insulate both ducts that connect the MVHR to the world. This is intended to prevent condensation on the outside of the incoming pipe and the inside of the outgoing pipe. Have all the duct runs between rooms and MVHR within the thermal envelope of the house. This means they need no insulating. The air that they're carrying is as warm as the house air, essentially so if they run through a cold space they will cool. This is either your warmed fresh air that is cooling, or it's your heat laden stale air. Loss of heat from either represents a loss of heat from the warm envelope.<br />
<br />
So between room and MVHR you care about losing the valuable heat. Between the MVHR and world you care about the nuisance condensation. Being insulated or in a warm envelope addresses both problems.

= Find out more =

=== Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki ===

* Air conditioning.
* Air infiltration testing.
* Building services.
* Condensation.
* Cross ventilation.
* Displacement ventilation.
* Domestic ventilation systems performance.
* Exhaust air heat pump.
* Flanking sound.
* Heat recovery.
* Humidity.
* HVAC.
* Interstitial condensation.
* Mechanical ventilation.
* Natural ventilation.
* Stack effect.
* Thermal comfort.
* Ventilation.

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