RIBA President, Alan Jones, said:
“It’s positive to see the Liberal Democrats recognise the role of the built environment in tackling climate change – calling for all new homes and non-domestic buildings to meet a zero-carbon standard by 2021 and providing free retrofits for residents on low incomes.
We also strongly welcome their plans to scrap the ‘office to residential loophole’ – protecting high streets and preventing the creation poor-quality and potentially dangerous housing. The RIBA has been clear that the solution to the housing crisis does not lie in permitted development, which gives developers the green light to cut corners and sidestep vital quality and environmental standards.
Their commitment to building more homes is also positive – especially those for social rent – but numbers must not be at the expense of quality and safety. As events over the past week have shown, our current building regulations are not fit for purpose when it comes to fire safety, and people’s lives are at risk. All political parties must commit to a complete overhaul of the UK’s building safety regulations.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
1. For further press information contact: Abigail.Chiswell-White@riba.org or +44 (0) 20 7307 3811
2. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
