Planning and Regulations

Approximately 50 per cent of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions can be attributed to buildings, of which over 27 per cent originate from residential housing. Once passed, the Climate Change Bill will set a legally binding target to reduce the UK's carbon dioxide emissions by 80 per cent by 2050.

The introduction of National Indicator 186 underlines the role local authorities have in reducing carbon dioxide emissions across its services. In 2006 the Government published `Building a Greener Future', which sets out a timetable to zero carbon development through progressive improvements to Building Regulations. Furthermore, since 2007 all new residential developments that receive public funding are required to meet Code level three of the Code of Sustainable Homes.

For local authorities with planning responsibilities, the land use planning system will be a highly powerful tool in ensuring new build developments are built to minimise their impact on the environment, contribute to carbon dioxide emissions reduction and are supportive to the development of a decentralised sustainable energy supply.

There is clear direction from Government in planning policy statements that local planning authorities can set bespoke planning policy that suits the needs and requirements of the area. Further detail on specific planning policy statements can be found in our `Planning for climate change' briefing note.

In light of this, as local planning authorities develop their new local development frameworks, strong consideration should be given to the type of policies required to ensure all new development is fit for purpose. It is therefore imperative that local planning authorities have the knowledge and expertise to help them move to zero carbon development.

Practical help can help you through this process. Please contact the team to find out how we can help. 0844 84 88830.

Building Regulations

For information on Building Regulations see each of the country specific links below:

Building regulations for England
Building regulations for Scotland
Building regulations for Northern Ireland