News archive for January, 2023
Specification Uplifts Required to Achieve the New GLA Targets
Posted on January 31st 2023
From January 2023, GLA guidance will result in new applications needing to enhance their energy efficiency specifications. All existing London Plan CO2 reduction targets will now apply over the Part L 2021 baseline, which in practice represents a tougher target than the previous Part L 2013 baseline. The 10% Be Lean (i.e. energy efficiency) target when applied over Part L …
The Government’s £32m Heat Network Efficiency Scheme
Posted on January 31st 2023
Recent high fuel costs, and longstanding heat network inefficiencies have been to the detriment of heat network customers. However, the Government’s £32m Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES) provides a route to lock in long-term running cost and carbon savings. Commencing in February 2023, the HNES will provide grant support to existing heat networks or communal heating projects that are operating …
How to Avoid Overheating Complaints
Posted on January 31st 2023
Developers are increasingly likely to receive overheating queries as climate change continues to cause temperatures to rise. This is particularly important for those with an ongoing interest in developments, such as landlords, or those involved in multi-phase developments, because: Overheating issues are appearing more often in mainstream media; the Met Office recently stated that 2022 was the warmest year on …
Mandated Audits for Circular Economy Statements
Posted on January 31st 2023
The GLA are holding up planning applications if results from independent pre-demolition or pre-redevelopment audits are excluded from circular economy statements. These two audits lay the groundwork for the how material use will be managed in line with the principles of a circular economy. A pre-demolition audit is required for brownfield sites without existing buildings. It is a detailed inventory …