HQN - OUR ELECTRONIC LIBRARY - Development and regeneration

Development and regeneration England/Wales

Planning

Green overhaul for planning system to cut emissions and bills
10 March 2010
Triple boost for councils tackling climate change by updating planning rules, granting nearly £10m to improve green skills and backing further progress by the ‘second wave’ of eco-towns
Policy Statement on Regional Strategies: Consultation
4 March 2010
Summary of responses
Homes for the Hebrides
20 January 2010
Scottish Government have announced fifty-four new homes for social rent will be built on the Isle of Lewis
Risk assessment decision making tool for building control bodies
11 January 2010
Final draft risk assessment guidance
Council house-building cash doubled
11 January 2010
Seventy-three councils covering every region of England will share an extra £122.6m
Taking forward the government's response to the Killian Pretty Review
22 December 2009
Second progress report
Better planning system to aid business recovery and build more homes
22 December 2009
Housing and Planning Minister John Healey has announced a package of measures to streamline the planning system, help businesses deliver projects quickly and drive down costs during recovery
Package for planners on 100th birthday of Planning Act
3 December 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has announced support for councils to plan and deliver new homes and green energy projects to power the country to a low carbon future
5 Year Land Supply for Housing in England as at April 2009
20 November 2009
This release of Official Statistics is the first in an annual series summarising Local Planning Authorities' reported assessment of the '5 year land supply' for housing
Removing red tape in move towards a low-carbon future
18 November 2009
Housing and Planning Minister John Healey has launched measures to cut carbon emissions by overhauling the planning system
Housing and Planning Key Facts
9 November 2009
November 2009
Launch of HCA and English Heritage Guidance set to pave way for new approach to masterplanning
16 October 2009
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) and English Heritage have launched its first joint 'How to' Guide outlining a new development-led approach to masterplanning, which advocates assessing the historic character of a site right at the earliest stages of redevelopment
Greater flexibility for planning permissions: impact assessment
15 September 2009
This document sets out the likely impact of the measures which are being taken forward following the consultation paper greater flexibility for planning permissions
Eco-towns: Addendum to Draft Planning Policy Statement
18 August 2009
Summary of consultation responses
Eco-towns - allocations from the eco-towns fund
18 August 2009
CLG consultation paper sets out proposals for local authorities and their delivery team partners on how the £60m announced to support locations identified with the potential for an eco-town published in the PPS on 16 July 2009 over the 2009-11 period might be allocated. Consultation closes 25 September 2009
New planning guidelines outlined for building in the countryside
17 July 2009
Changes to planning guidance that will improve access to affordable homes, create a sustainable rural economy and introduce one planet communities have been announced by Welsh Assembly Government Environment, Sustainability and Housing Minister Jane Davidson
Delivery chain assessment: are you confident you will deliver your housing targets?
1 July 2009
HQN has recently been working with several county, district and unitary authorities recently to provide the external facilitation and peer challenge needed to help identify improvements
Greater flexibility for planning permissions: Consultation
19 June 2009
This consultation invites views on whether to introduce a mechanism for extending the time limits for implementation of existing planning permissions, and to consider how to implement the procedure for making non-material amendments under section 190 of the Planning Act 2008. Consultation closes 13.8.09
Building (Amendment) Regulations 2009: New Part G in Schedule 1 and new minimum water efficiency requirements
19 May 2009
The purpose of this circular letter is to bring to attention changes in respect of Part G in Schedule 1 to the Building Regulations, and new minimum water efficiency requirements in new dwellings
World class places: The government's strategy for improving quality of place
14 May 2009
This strategy lays out why and how quality of place matters and the practical steps the government will be taking to build on the achievements of recent years and do more to create prosperous, attractive, distinctive, inclusive and sustainable world class places
Housing and Planning Key Facts - May 2009
8 May 2009
This CLG quick reference leaflet is published quarterly and contains a snapshot of the main housing and planning data. Detailed housing and planning data may be found in the live tables
Planning Policy Statement - Consultation paper on a new Planning Policy Statement 4: Planning for Prosperous Economies
7 May 2009
This consultation paper seeks views on combining all national planning policy on economic development in urban and rural areas and town centres into one consolidated and streamlined Planning Policy Statement (PPS). Closing date for the consultation is 28.7.09
Planning Act 2008: Impact Assessment of transitional/savings provisions for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs)
15 April 2009
This impact assessment considers whether transitional provisions are needed for a limited period after the new planning regime commences, so that consultations already carried out do not need to be repeated solely for the purpose of compliance
Circular 03/09: Costs awards in appeals and other planning proceedings
7 April 2009
This circular provides updated guidance on the award of costs in England in proceedings under the Planning Acts. It compliments legislative amendments designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning appeals system. The guidance in this circular applies to appeals made and other proceedings initiated on or after 6 April 2009
Urban extensions, planning and participation: Lessons from Derwenthorpe and other new communities
12 March 2009
This Joseph Rowntree report identifies key issues and lessons for current planning policy and practice concerning the development of new urban extensions
Planning bill green light will now accelerate renewable energy
2 December 2008
The UK's ability to compete in a tough global economy and deliver new green infrastructure vital for reducing our carbon emissions has been given a major boost with the Royal Assent of the Planning Bill
Community Infrastructure Levy: Impact assessment
2 December 2008
CIL will be a new charge which local authorities in England and Wales will be empowered, but not required, to charge on most types of development
Planning bill green light will now accelerate renewable energy
28 November 2008
The UK's ability to compete in a tough global economy and deliver new green infrastructure vital for reducing our carbon emissions has been given a major boost with the Royal Assent of the Planning Bill
Government welcomes the Killian Pretty report
26 November 2008
The government has welcomed proposals to help small businesses and councils save up to £300m a year through a root and branch overhaul of the bureaucratic planning application process recommended by the Killian Pretty review
Planning application process shake up to slash unnecessary red tape
26 November 2008
The Killian Pretty Review is urging a cull of bureaucracy in the planning application process to make it work better for everyone and help economic recovery
The Killian Pretty review was jointly commissioned by Communities and Local Government and Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Departments in March 2008
25 November 2008
The aim of the review was to investigate the opportunities for improving the planning application process for the benefit of all involved. It was carried out by Joanna Killian, Chief Executive of Essex County Council and David Pretty, who recently retired as Group Chief Executive of Barratt Developments PLC. The report, published on 24 November 2008, urges a cull of bureaucracy in the planning application process to make it work better for everyone and help economic recovery
Home extension freedoms begin
1 October 2008
Improving your home just became a whole lot easier for tens of thousands of families Housing and Planning Minister Caroline Flint has announced
Previously developed land that may be available for development: England 2007
22 September 2008
The latest statistics on previously developed land produced by Communities and Local Government
Achieving Building for life
18 September 2008
This Housing Corporation publication offers guidance for affordable housing providers on how to achieve the Building for Life standards
Better rules will help home improvements and world heritage sites
11 September 2008
New development rules which will cut the red tape for home improvements, combat the effects of climate change and protect world heritage sites have been introduced by Housing and Planning Minister Caroline Flint
Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 section 317: Time Limit for Prosecutions of Breaches of Building Regulations and the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 (Commencement No. 1 and Transitional Provision) Order 2008
11 September 2008
This divisional letter informs building control bodies about the commencement on 22 September 2008 of section 317 of the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008
Housing and planning: update on recent changes to the planning system
26 August 2008
Network briefing by Suzanne McBride looks at key changes to the planning system since 2004, offering a quick guide to the new system, and considering changes proposed in the Planning Bill (including the Community Infrastructure Levy) and other reviews
Housing and Planning – Key Facts
13 August 2008
This quick reference leaflet is published quarterly and contains a snapshot of the main housing and planning data
Funding transport Infrastructure for strategically significant developments
6 August 2008
This consultation seeks views on a set of proposed guidelines and principles covering transport connections to strategically significant developments and who should fund them. The closing date for comments is 31 October 2008
Common Starting Points for Section 106 Affordable Housing Negotiations
6 August 2008
This research report was commissioned to improve the evidence on the dynamics of planning obligation negotiations for affordable housing contributions. It explores whether establishing a common starting point for affordable housing negotiations would improve practice and outcomes
The Community Infrastructure Levy
6 August 2008
This document explains the community infrastructure levy, which is a charge that local authorities in England and Wales will be empowered, but not required, to levy on most types of new development in their areas to support local and sub-regional infrastructure development
Valuing Planning Obligations in England: Update Study for 2005-06
6 August 2008
This study examines the number of planning obligation agreements entered into in England in 2005-06 and estimates their value.
Planning Partnership guide to speed up new large scale developments
9 June 2008
A new guide to speed up planning partnerships between councils and developers has been published by Planning Minister, Iain Wright
Local Development Frameworks streamlining
4 June 2008
Summary of responses to consultation
Blears boosts planning aid giving everyone the right to be heard
3 June 2008
Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has announced a major expansion of Planning Aid, to ensure that people have the advice, skills and professional support they need to have a proper voice in the planning process
Experts challenge developers to raise their game on eco-towns
19 May 2008
Fourteen leading experts will today challenge developers to improve their visions for eco-towns and deliver world class proposals for the first new towns in the UK for 45 years
Eco-Towns: Living a greener future - Consultation paper
8 April 2008
On the 3rd of April, Housing Minister Caroline Flint, announced 15 potential locations that will go forward to the next stage for developing the new Eco-Towns. This is the first stage of the process and they will now be consulted on with the public, local authorities and wider stakeholders and will have a detailed Sustainability Appraisal which will assess the merits and challenges for each one. A final shortlist of locations will be published later this year, after which each potential eco-town will need to submit a planning application

This consultation seeks the public's views on the vision for eco-towns and the shortlisted locations proposed. The consultation ends on the 30th June 2008
Eco-Towns Prospectus
8 April 2008
This prospectus outlines the Government's eco-towns strategy. Eco-towns will be small new towns of at least 5,000-20,000 homes. They are intended to exploit the potential to create a complete new settlement to achieve zero-carbon development and more sustainable living using the best new design and architecture
Community Infrastructure Fund - Round 2 Bidding Guidance
8 April 2008
This document gives guidance to local authorities that wish to bid for funding from the community infrastructure fund. The fund is designed to complement mainstream transport funding, uniquely linking the provision of funding for transport infrastructure to the delivery of housing
Additional files:
- Visit website
Building Sustainable Transport into New Developments: A menu of options for growth points and eco-towns
8 April 2008
This Department for Transport document is aimed at all those involved in the planning, design and construction of new housing developments. It sets out advice on how to build an effective sustainable transport system in new developments, from the planning to the implementation stage. It recommends a variety of transport options to integrate and adopt according to the location and needs of the individual
An end to the waiting game for planning decisions
25 March 2008
A new red tape busting review to weed out bureaucratic hurdles and create a more efficient planning service for the public and business, has been launched by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears, Business Secretary John Hutton and Housing and Planning Minister Caroline Flint
The Future of Building Control: Consultation paper
19 March 2008
CLG consultation paper which sets out and seeks views on proposals by Government for changes to the building control system in England and Wales

Regeneration

Making deprived areas better places to live
4 March 2010
Evidence from the New Deal for Communities programme
New powers for councils' to help communities thrive
16 February 2010
Councils' new levy will help fund economic growth and lay the foundations for future success of local areas
Running a regeneration programme
11 February 2010
The experiences of resident representatives on the boards of New Deal for Communities Partnerships
What works in neighbourhood-level regeneration?
11 February 2010
The views of key stakeholders in the New Deal for Communities Programme
More housing for Shetland
27 January 2010
The Scottish Government have announced that ten new homes for social rent will be built in Aith, on Shetland
Homes for the Hebrides
20 January 2010
Scottish Government have announced fifty-four new homes for social rent will be built on the Isle of Lewis
Devolution’s impact on low-income people and places
15 January 2010
Round-up and a series of reports from Joseph Rowntree explore trends in social and economic disadvantage as well as policy developments in four areas: housing and homelessness, employment, neighbourhood regeneration and long-term care for older people
Council house-building cash doubled
11 January 2010
Seventy-three councils covering every region of England will share an extra £122.6m
HCA appoints one-stop-shop partner panel
8 January 2010
A variety of house builders, contractors and development consortia have been appointed to the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA) new Delivery Partner Panel
Work begins on biggest council house building programme in two decades
5 January 2010
Housing Minister John Healey has hailed the start of the biggest council house building programme in nearly two decades as work began on the first of over two thousand new homes to help tackle waiting list pressures
More cash and more homes
31 December 2009
In an end of year report Housing Minister John Healey said government funding for housebuilding has hit £2billion since June as he announced a further £278m for an extra 5,000 affordable homes across the country
Kickstart cash boost to get as many as 12,000 workers and apprentices back on site
17 December 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has announced a further 265 stalled housing developments shortlisted for a share of up to £550m to help get building work on over 22,400 homes back on track
Affordable housing market upturn as banks called on to lend a further £20 billion for new homes
27 November 2009
Housing associations will need to borrow more than £20 billion from banks over the next five years to continue to build new homes for those most in need, according to the TSA
Guidance for local authorities on incentivising landowners to bring forward additional land for rural affordable housing on rural exception sites
26 November 2009
Consultation ends 18 February 2010
Government cash to kickstart stalled developments as more workers get back on site
26 November 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has met the first workers back on site of a stalled housing project in New Broughton, Salford, which, thanks to over £7m government cash, is now back on track
Government backs rural communities with best plans for the future
26 November 2009
Housing Minister John Healey and Rural Minister Dan Norris are backing councils with cash and support to kickstart plans to build homes that people can afford and where they want to live, and develop rural areas to meet the needs of local people
HCA on target to deliver homes in this financial year
25 November 2009
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) says it is well on course to meet its end of year housing targets, despite the economic downturn and difficult operating conditions
Government cash getting housebuilding back on track in Southampton
20 November 2009
Communities Secretary John Denham has seen the first stages of building work getting underway at the first Kickstart project in the South East
Government cash getting Britain's housebuilders building again
18 November 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has put the first spade into the ground of the first Kickstart project
The Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 (Registration of local authorities) Order 2009
11 November 2009
Summary of responses to consultation
Building a better future
5 November 2009
Speech by John Healey MP Minister for Housing and Planning
John Denham fires starting gun for new heart of Purfleet
5 November 2009
A multi-million pound proposal for a regeneration scheme to transform the heart of Purfleet in the Thames Gateway has now been was set out
Key messages and evidence on the housing market renewal pathfinder programme 2003-2009
23 October 2009
This summary report provides an overview of the key recent evidence relating to the Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder programme, drawing out important messages and findings, and providing signposts and links to where further information can be found
Wider performance measures for the housing market renewal programme
23 October 2009
This paper identifies wider performance measures which could be used to measure sustainability of local housing markets, in the context of the HMR programme
Value for money issues and the evaluation of the housing market renewal pathfinder programme
23 October 2009
This paper considers the conceptual and practical problems in assessing value for money of the HMR programme by looking at a number of case studies
Policy alignment and partnership working in housing market renewal pathfinders
23 October 2009
This paper reviews the extent to which HMR Pathfinders are aligned to the policy frameworks within the regions, sub-regions, districts and neighbourhoods in which they operate
National evaluation of housing market renewal pathfinders 2005 to 2007
23 October 2009
This evaluation looks at the programme's achievements, between 2005 and 2007 and assesses changes in the wider housing market, considering the implications for the future of the HMR programme
Northern Regeneration Summit
23 October 2009
Speech by The Rt Hon Rosie Winterton MP, Minister for Local Government and Regional Minister for Yorkshire and Humber
Learning from city recovery in Europe and the United States
23 October 2009
A Joseph Rowntree study of why cities decline, how they recover and how low-income communities within them fare under the impact of dramatic changes
Second wave of Kickstart funding announced
16 October 2009
Another £51m has been released by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) in the second wave of schemes to be unlocked through round one of the Kickstart Programme
Government help for housebuilding hits £1 billion since June
14 October 2009
Government help for housebuilding has hit £1 billion as Housing Minister John Healey released £443m for over 8,000 new homes, helping tackle the shortage of affordable homes, support the construction industry through the recession and create jobs and apprenticeships
Understanding and tackling worklessness: Lessons and policy implications
7 October 2009
Key messages emerging from the the strategies deployed by the New Deal for Communities programme to tackle worklessness across the 39 deprived neighbourhoods that make up the programme. A number of other more detailed reports have also been published on the subject
Four years of change? Understanding the experiences of the 2002-06 New Deal for Communities Panel - Summary report
7 October 2009
Report summarising the analysis of data from the household surveys conducted in the New Deal for Communities and comparator areas in 2002, 2004 and 2006 as part of the evaluation of the Programme. It provides a longitudinal perspective on outcome change in these deprived areas and identifies who has experienced the most change over time. A number of other more detailed reports have also been published
Over £180m further investment for more council housing
29 September 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has launched the second phase of the biggest council house building programme for almost two decades. He also stated that councils must include details of how they will create new apprenticeship schemes if they expect to get a slice of government cash
HCA unlocks 750 homes through Kickstart's first £10m
15 September 2009
A 141-home scheme in Redcar is the largest development to get Kickstart funding from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) in the first batch of successful bidders which have now been announced
Housing Market Renewal: programme review 2008/09
27 August 2009
Network briefing paper by Jenny Mayne draws out the key points from the review and suggests where there are lessons for others engaged in neighbourhood and area renewal
Building Britain's Future: Healey unveils further boost for housing
17 July 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has announced the release of funding to build 11,200 new homes, regenerate ten of the most deprived areas of the country and create 20,000 jobs in the building industry
Efficiency in development and regeneration
16 July 2009
Network briefing paper by Clare Harrigan sets out an overview of progression and delivery of development and regeneration, but in the context of economic pressures and specifically highlights key areas where efficiency gains can be made
Housing pathfinders face testing time as recession bites
14 May 2009
Places in the North and Midlands, where the government has spent billions attempting to revive the housing market, are being hit hard by the recession and may struggle to recover
New government vision for regeneration sector
12 May 2009
A new framework for regeneration that will help the sector push through the downturn has been announced by Communities Secretary Hazel Blears in a speech to the British Urban Regeneration Association (BURA)
Mayor of London and HCA invest £16m to 'kick start' development
7 May 2009
The HCA London Board, chaired by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has agreed to invest over £16m in the latest two projects from its programme to ‘kick start’ developments in London that have been affected by the economic downturn
Long-term plans for growth in the South East unveiled
7 May 2009
A strategy for delivering the new homes, jobs and infrastructure the South East needs until 2026 has been announced by Communities Minister Sadiq Khan
Funky office pads complete in the Ouseburn Valley
29 April 2009
A derelict industrial area in Newcastle’s Ouseburn Valley has been brought back to life by regeneration specialist Priority Sites with its speculative 23,668 sq ft office development
Shift in the attitudes and behaviours of housing and regeneration organisations during the downturn
20 April 2009
A second poll released today by the HCA Academy, the skills and expertise arm of the Homes and Communities Agency, has found a significant increase in the number of housing and regeneration professionals admitting to mounting concern about the recession
Transforming places; changing lives: a framework for regeneration - summary of consultation responses
31 March 2009
In July 2008, Communities and Local Government published a consultation seeking views on the draft new regeneration framework. This summary of responses sets out the views expressed by respondents and CLG’s proposed next steps
Millions approved for Cinderford
19 March 2009
The HCA has confirmed it had received approval to proceed with an investment of £14.75m, from the National Coalfields Programme, to assist in the regeneration of Cinderford in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Housing and planning key facts
9 February 2009
This CLG quick reference leaflet is published quarterly and contains a snapshot of the main housing and planning data
The credit crunch and regeneration: Impact and implications
2 February 2009
This CLG publication is aimed at regeneration practitioners and policymakers, local authorities, Regional Development Agencies, Housing Market Renewal Pathfinders, New Deal for Communities areas, Urban Regeneration Companies and Economic Development Companies
Healey - Parkinson right that regeneration can come through downturn
2 February 2009
Local Government Minister John Healey has said that the Parkinson report rightly recognises the credit crunch's impact on regeneration but it also says with the right long-term vision and support, like government's action to bring forward funding, it can come through the downturn
Amendments to Part 2 of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996
8 December 2008
This impact assessment contains information on options considered for the implementation of amendments to the 1996 "Construction Act". A draft version was originally published in July 2008 for public consultation. This consultation closed in September 2008 and this assessment takes into account comments made during that consultation
Minister announces £350m boost to Welsh economy
4 December 2008
Andrew Davies, the Minister for Finance and Public Service Delivery, has announced a £350m package to boost the Welsh economy via innovative, cross-cutting and strategic capital projects
Impacts and Outcomes of the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund
28 November 2008
The NRF has been the principal funding mechanism deployed to drive forward the National Strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal at the local level. It has assisted England's 88 most deprived authorities, in collaboration with their Local Strategic Partnership (LSP), in their work to improve services and narrow the gap between deprived areas and the rest
Housing and Regeneration Act
13 November 2008
Network briefing by Jamie Ewing explores the implications of the Act for the housing sector
Regenerating Communities
31 October 2008
Speech by The Rt Hon Hazel Blears MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government
Blears outlines new economic people-focused approach to regeneration
17 July 2008
Ministers plan to focus on 'real-life' measures to improve people's lives rather than bricks and mortar targets for regeneration funding. This is so communities get more than a cosmetic facelift and are helped to unlock their potential and take responsibility for their own regeneration
Transforming Places; changing lives: a framework for regeneration
17 July 2008
This framework sets out a package of proposals for consultation that aim to shape the way that regeneration is carried out in future in England. Consultation closes 31.10.08
Housing and regeneration agreement launched
8 July 2008
A new agreement to support the delivery of more homes and the regeneration of communities has been launched by Housing Minister Caroline Flint, Local Government Association Chairman Sir Simon Milton and Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) Chief Executive Designate Sir Bob Kerslake
New housing and jobs for Yorkshire and Humber
22 May 2008
A twenty year vision to deliver new houses, tackle climate change, encourage economic growth and regeneration of the Yorkshire and Humber region has been published by Communities Minister Baroness Andrews
Housing and jobs boost for East of England
12 May 2008
A new twenty year vision to deliver badly needed housing, infrastructure and new jobs for the East of England has been published by Communities Minister, Parmjit Dhanda. The revised Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) will deliver a vision for continuing growth and spreading prosperity to all communities in the East of England in a planned and sustainable way over the next two decades
Gateway to jobs and homes for thousands of east enders
8 May 2008
A major new package of investment in housing, jobs, infrastructure, community facilities and green spaces is set to rejuvenate areas of east London and transform the lives of people living there, announced Housing and Planning Minister Caroline Flint
Displacement of Crime or Diffusion of Benefit: Evidence from the New Deal for Communities programme
8 April 2008
The Government has assisted deprived neighbourhoods through the New Deal for Communities (NDC) Programme, launched in 1998. It is designed to encourage delivery of local services in a coordinated way to meet local needs, and aims to narrow the gap between these 39 areas and the rest of the country. This report is based on analysis of crime data in NDCs and their immediate surrounding areas, to find out what effect crime patterns within NDCs have had on crime in surrounding areas
Delivering Safer Neighbourhoods: Experiences from the New Deal for Communities Programme
8 April 2008
This report presents findings from research on crime and community safety in the New Deal for Communities programme
Challenges, Interventions and Change: An overview of neighbourhood renewal in six New Deal for Communities areas
8 April 2008
This report presents the findings of research on neighbourhood renewal in six New Deal for Communities programme areas. It looks at why and how changes at the local level have occurred

Development standards

Decent Homes - the National Audit Office verdict
25 February 2010
Network briefing by Neil Merrick
Welsh company launches homes made from recycled waste plastic
25 February 2010
Eco-friendly homes that have the potential to revolutionise the building industry
Lifetime Neighbourhoods: turning vision into reality
25 February 2010
Speech by Lord Bill McKenzie, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State
Over £60m to lay green foundations of eco-towns
9 February 2010
Country's biggest ever green home building programme, with four areas sharing £60m cash to build over 600 new homes to the toughest ever environmental standards
Building Regulations competent person self-certification schemes
24 December 2009
This consultation paper sets out and seeks views on proposals by the department for changes to the administrative provisions for approval, monitoring and quality assurance of Building Regulations competent person self-certification schemes in England and Wales. This consultation closes on the 19 March 2010
Tackling shoddy building work - putting more power in people's hands
24 December 2009
New measures to help people get fairer treatment when building work goes wrong have now been published as part of a consultation on boosting the professional standards for builders and tradesmen in approved competent person schemes
Code for Sustainable Homes
22 December 2009
Impact assessment - December 2009
Code for Sustainable Homes technical guide
22 December 2009
This consultation version of the technical guide is part of the Sustainable New Homes: The Road to Zero Carbon: Consultation on the Code for Sustainable Homes and the Energy Efficiency standard for Zero Carbon Homes publication. The consultation closes on 24 March 2010
Zero Carbon Homes
22 December 2009
Impact assessment - December 2009
Sustainable New Homes: The Road to Zero Carbon
17 December 2009
Consultation on the Code for Sustainable Homes and the Energy Efficiency standard for Zero Carbon Homes. Consultation closing date 24 March 2010
Overhauling the green rating standard for new homes
17 December 2009
Housing and Planning Minister John Healey has today launched proposals for a more consumer-friendly green rating for homes
Package for planners on 100th birthday of Planning Act
3 December 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has announced support for councils to plan and deliver new homes and green energy projects to power the country to a low carbon future
Second wave of eco-towns
3 December 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has announced proposals for a second wave of world leading eco-towns and pledged to double the money to a total of £10m to support councils in developing their plans
Meeting the challenge of climate change will establish a new era in local government
26 November 2009
Strong leadership, clear vision and ambition from councils could deliver reductions in carbon emissions of millions of tonnes annually and potentially unlock £1 billion in income for councils, according to Communities Secretary John Denham
Building momentum for homes of the future
25 November 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has confirmed that this country will be the first in the world to require zero carbon homes as a matter of law from 2016
Zero Carbon for New Non-domestic Buildings
25 November 2009
Consultation on Policy Options. Consultation closes 26 February 2010
Start on site for first Code Level 6 development
20 November 2009
Work has officially commenced on England’s first large-scale zero carbon development at Hanham Hall near Bristol
Removing red tape in move towards a low-carbon future
18 November 2009
Housing and Planning Minister John Healey has launched measures to cut carbon emissions by overhauling the planning system
£450m to get workers back on stalled housing sites
29 October 2009
Housing Minister John Healey has finalised a £450m funding package to kickstart work on over 150 stalled housing developments, getting work back on track and builders back on site
Residents and businesses help shape the Thames Gateway eco-quarter
16 October 2009
New technologies and initiatives for homes and businesses in the Thames Gateway to tackle climate change will be tried out in the country's first eco-quarter, Thames Gateway Minister Shahid Malik has announced
Understanding permeable and impermeable surfaces
15 September 2009
Technical report on surfacing options and cost benefit analysis
Future of Building Control: Implementation Plan
2 September 2009
The Future of Building Control Implementation Plan and Milestone Map records progress made following CLG’s consultation of March 2008. The changes proposed will raise compliance with the Regulations whilst helping create a more responsive and customer focused system
Clearer rules for builders
2 September 2009
The government has set out plans to make it easier for builders to understand what standards are expected of them and to ensure buildings comply with high standards of safety and sustainability
Next round of low carbon projects confirmed
26 August 2009
Details of the successful schemes for the second round of funding from the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA) low carbon infrastructure initiative, totalling £8.80m, have been announced
Further advice on fire risk assessments
21 August 2009
From Clare Miller, Executive Director - Risk and Assurance
Definition of Zero Carbon Homes: Impact Assessment (July 2009)
17 July 2009
Updated Impact Assessment (IA) of the costs and benefits of the policy of zero carbon homes
John Healey: Green light given on eco-town sites plus tougher standards for future homes
17 July 2009
Greener living in Britain's first eco-towns will become a reality for up to 30,000 people in five years' time. Housing Minister John Healey has announced the four sites that have passed the government's tough standards to go through to the next planning phase, full public consultation and local planning approval
John Healey: Action to help developers during downturn and build greener buildings
19 June 2009
Developers will be given more time to start building and further flexibility to adapt plans, under a package of new measures announced by Housing Minister John Healey to support the industry during these tough economic times
Country's greenest development gets go ahead
9 June 2009
England’s first large-scale development to be built to Level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, has been given the green light to move ahead. Barratt Developments Plc and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) have received planning permission to build 195 zero-carbon homes as part of the Hanham Hall ‘eco village’ in South Gloucestershire
Enhanced hot water safety and efficiency measures for all new homes
14 May 2009
All new homes will feature inbuilt protection from hot water scalding in baths and will use water more efficiently under measures announced by Housing Minister Iain Wright
Understanding Builder to Builder Residential Land Transactions
19 March 2009
This report examines the factors that influence the behaviour of housebuilders in their decision to purchase, sell and/or resell plots of land
The Future of Green Building in Britain
5 March 2009
Speech by The Rt Hon Margaret Beckett MP, Minister for Housing and Planning
The Code for Sustainable Homes: Case Studies - Planning, building and the environment
4 March 2009
This publication sets out a number of detailed case studies on homes that have been built based on the Code for Sustainable Homes. The case studies show the different ways of achieving various levels of the code and highlight potential pitfalls for developers
Eco-towns public consultation deadline extended
3 March 2009
Local residents are to be given more time to respond to the government's second eco-towns public consultation after Housing Minister Margaret Beckett extended the deadline for responses. The consultation on the draft Planning Policy Statement (PPS) and Sustainability Appraisal on eco-towns has now been extended to Thursday 30 April, meaning it will run for more than five months
Fuel poverty
24 February 2009
Network briefing by Maria Wardrobe explores the issues surrounding fuel poverty
Strategy to tackle environmental impact of homes welcomed by the HCA
17 February 2009
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has welcomed the publication of the government’s draft Heat and Energy Savings Strategy, which sets out a plan for environmental improvements to be made available to householders in every home, in every street by 2030, to significantly reduce carbon emissions
Towards zero carbon housing
22 January 2009
Network briefing paper by Ann Bodkin covers the need for change, the policies and step changes which government has brought in through legislation, with examples of new build schemes and improvements to existing housing stock to reduce carbon emissions
Sustainable maintenance in existing homes
2 January 2009
Network briefing by Richard Lupo explains not only how to maintain the existing stock but how to take the opportunity, during maintenance activities, to improve the environmental performance
Address to the National House Building Council
26 November 2008
Speech by The Rt Hon Margaret Beckett MP, Minister for Housing
In brief: Achieving Building for Life
20 November 2008
This publication offers guidance for affordable housing providers on how to achieve the Building for Life standards
Building work, replacements and repairs to your home
14 November 2008
This leaflet highlights the types of building work that needs to be notified to your Local Authority Building Control unless the work is carried out by a Competent Persons Scheme (CPS) installer who is registered with the right Competent Persons Scheme
The Future of Building Control Consultation: Summary of Responses paper
29 October 2008
This publication details the analysis of the responses received to The Future of Building Control consultation paper which was published in March 2008
Tackling fuel poverty
14 October 2008
Network briefing by Chris Bowen, explores amongst other things, the extent of fuel poverty, government targets and what a housing organisation can do to help reduce fuel poverty
Achieving Building for life
18 September 2008
This Housing Corporation publication offers guidance for affordable housing providers on how to achieve the Building for Life standards
Simplified arrangements for the production of CO2 emission rate calculations for new buildings under the Building Regulations 2000: Consultation - Summary of responses
11 September 2008
This report sets out the summary and analysis of the responses to the consultation on simplified arrangements for the production of CO2 emission rate calculations for new buildings under the Building Regulations 2000
Eco-towns set to face toughest ever green standards
24 July 2008
Housing Minister Caroline Flint has set out the Government's latest proposals for the UK's toughest ever green standards for new housing as she unveiled a progress report on eco-towns
Buildings in England and Wales score an average ‘C’ energy rating
3 July 2008
Commercial buildings are scoring an average 'C' energy rating, according to early results from the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) to the commercial sector
New research reveals public support for the development of eco-towns by a ratio of 5:1
30 June 2008
New research released by Housing Minister Caroline Flint reveals current support for the development of eco-towns among the general public outnumbers opposition by a ratio of 5:1. The research is published as the consultation process around the government's vision for the country's first eco-towns starts its next phase
Councils must use powers to protect new homes from flood risk
13 June 2008
Councils must get tough on protecting people in flood risk areas Minister for Housing, Caroline Flint, announced
Land Use Change Statistics (England) 2007 - provisional estimates
29 May 2008
The latest national statistics on Land Use Change were released under the auspices of the UK Statistics Authority on 29 May 2008
Building Regulations Advisory Committee (BRAC) Annual Report 2007
1 May 2008
This is the eight annual report on the advisory work carried out by the Building Regulations Advisory Committee (BRAC) in 2007
Code for Sustainable Homes: Technical guide – April 2008
18 April 2008
Updated CLG guidance manual to national standard for sustainable design and construction of new homes which sets out the requirements for the Code, and the process by which a Code assessment is reached
Twelve experts sign up for eco towns challenge
9 April 2008
Twelve experts from the worlds of design, the environment, transport and sustainability have signed up to join the Eco-towns Challenge and play a key role in shaping the future of the biggest new towns programme in the UK for 40 years. Their role will be to maximise the potential for eco-town development in shortlisted locations by both encouraging bidders to develop and improve their vision for eco-town development and injecting new thinking on how eco-towns could best be delivered in each of the short-listed locations
The Future of Building Control: Consultation paper
19 March 2008
CLG consultation paper which sets out and seeks views on proposals by Government for changes to the building control system in England and Wales
Building for life - a toolkit to promote quality design
14 March 2008
Housing Corporation website toolkit, aimed at architects and developers, provides guidance on how to assess a scheme using the Building for Life criteria
Budget will help first-time buyers with new home loans
14 March 2008
Thousands of first-time buyers and key workers could see their purchasing power boosted by up to 50 per cent with new home loans announced in the Budget

Low demand

Policy alignment and partnership working in housing market renewal pathfinders
23 November 2009
This paper reviews the extent to which HMR Pathfinders are aligned to the policy frameworks within the regions, sub-regions, districts and neighbourhoods in which they operate
Key messages and evidence on the housing market renewal pathfinder programme 2003-2009
23 November 2009
This summary report provides an overview of the key recent evidence relating to the Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder programme, drawing out important messages and findings, and providing signposts and links to where further information can be found
Empty homes refurbishment just part of the solution
20 November 2009
Refurbishing empty properties to bring them back into use as affordable housing is just one part of the solution to meet housing demand and simultaneously stimulate supply, according to the Homes and Communities Agency

Decent Homes

Decent Homes - the next steps?
18 June 2009
Network briefing by Sheila Camp looks at the aims of the report; 'Towards a successor standard to Decent Homes', the key areas for a new standard, areas to be excluded/tackled locally and the next steps

Partnering arrangements

Housing market renewal and private sector developers
23 October 2009
This study looks at the relationship between HMR Pathfinders and private sector developers, considering how private developers are involved and have responded to HMR as well as looking at local authority engagement with developers
HCA delivery partner panel proves popular with contractors
11 September 2009
The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has received 132 completed submissions from a range of construction and development companies, to the Pre-Qualifying Questionnaire (PQQ) for a panel being set up to develop its sites, which can also be used by Local Authority partners for developing their land
Roots Review: Review of arrangements for efficiencies from smarter procurement in local government
19 February 2009
Independent report which highlights that substantial actions are underway by the Regional Improvement and Efficiency Partnerships (RIEPs) and others to enhance procurement efficiency. But more can be done. It sets out practical recommendations that can be acted on by relevant organisations, such as the RIEPs
Partnering and open-book – till dispute do us part?
17 November 2008
TEAMnet briefing by Wayne Hughes and Rob McNaughton, made available here to Network members, explores the benefits and pitfalls of partnering
Effective procurement/VfM/contract arrangements
4 November 2008
Network briefing by Rob McNaughton looks at joint procurement, whole life costing, partnering and other common issues
Best Value and Procurement: Workforce Matters in Best Value Authority Contracting: Statutory Guidance - Draft for Consultation
29 October 2008
This consultation paper seeks views on updating and re-issuing existing guidance which sets out how staff who work on best value authority contracts are treated. Consultation closing date is 19 January 2009
Gold awards
14 May 2008
The winners of the prestigious Housing Corporation’s Gold Awards 2007 have now been announced. There were three themes for the annual awards which were presented by Housing Minister, Caroline Flint
Construction companies – Office of Fair Trading announcement and guidance
28 April 2008
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) announced that it has issued a Statement of Objections to 112 companies alleged to have engaged in bid-rigging activities, particularly cover pricing, in the construction sector. This OFT guidance note will be of interest to all housing associations in relation to their procurement of construction, repairs and maintenance and other related services

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