Act
The term ‘Act’ refers to an Act of Parliament that either creates a new law or changes in some way an existing one. The government is responsible for enforcing new laws once they have been passed by Parliament. Acts of Parliament comprise the UK’s statute law.
An Act is different from a Bill in that it has been approved by both chambers – the House of Commons and House of Lords – and is given Royal Assent.
Once it has been passed, an Act can either come into force with immediate effect, or at a specified future date, or it can be introduced in stages.
To change an existing law, another Act or delegated legislation must be passed, or an Act can be repealed so that it no longer applies.
Almost all current Acts of Parliament are available to read on the Legislation.gov.uk website.
Some of the most relevant Acts realting to construction and the built environment include:
- Clean Air Act.
- Energy act of 2011.
- Environmental Protection Act.
- Flood and Water Management Act.
- Growth and Infrastructure Act 2013.
- Housing Act 1996.
- Housing Act 2004.
- Housing and Planning Act 2016
- Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act HGRA.
- Law of Property Act 1925 Receiver.
- Local Democracy Economic Development Act 2009.
- Localism Act.
- Party Wall Act.
- Planning Act 2008.
- Planning and Compensation Act 1991.
- Town and Country Planning Act.
- Unfair contract terms act.
- Wildlife and Countryside Act.
For more information see: https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Category:Other_legislation
NB Hybrid bills mix the characteristics of public and private Bills. The provisions in a
hybrid bill would affect the general public, but would also have particular effects on
specific individuals or groups.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).