Scotland's Architecture Centre pops-up in Edinburgh and will be chaired by Co-Founder Rab Bennetts

14.10.2021

We are pleased to see the launch of UKGBC's Commercial New-Build Policy Playbook which we collaborated in drafting alongside Lendlease, Rockwool, Bruntwood, Landsec and Tuffin Ferraby Taylor. The Commercial New-Build Policy Playbook shares policy recommendations for non-domestic new builds. Its intention is to fill the gap left by national policy, which is not currently delivering change at the pace that is required to meet the UK’s environmental commitments.

Within the playbook there are minimum and advanced – or stretch – requirements that are designed to reduce embodied carbon, reduce energy use and ensure low carbon energy sources, amongst other themes. The recommendations are designed for commercial, non-domestic, buildings – for example office developments.

Although some local authorities are already demonstrating leadership through ambitious policy, we believe more assistance across the board is needed to drive up sustainability. Indeed, UKGBC advocates for support for net-zero development across the country. This would enable local authorities to benefit from shared learning, common resources, and mutual confidence, while providing stability for industry on the requirements across different regions.

Considering the individual requirements of different parts of the country is crucial when following the advice in this playbook, this collaborative document will allow local authorities and built environment professionals to work together on the best route forward.

To download and read the playbook, follow this link.