NHBC Response to DCLG Zero Carbon Development consultation document 13/12/06

NHBC, the leading standard setting body and home warranty provider for new home construction in the UK has today said industry must engage in the consultation phase on the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) zero carbon development document.

NHBC Chief Executive, Imtiaz Farookhi, said: "The plan for the Code for Sustainable Homes (CSH) is one which has been long-awaited by the industry and we will need to engage in the consultation phase, alongside other industry stakeholders, to ensure the reality meets the aims of the policies for the benefit of consumers. Whilst we work towards these objectives we must ensure consumer protection and quality are maintained.

"It is right that the Government should marry the aims of sustainability to the planning agenda in the Planning Policy Statement but we must be careful to ensure that the system meets the needs of both delivery and sustainability.

"The newly launched National Centre for Excellence in Housing - a joint venture between NHBC and the Building Research Establishment (BRE) - presents an ideal platform to bring together Government and industry. The Centre will facilitate the formulation of practical and workable solutions to the issue of carbon neutral homes and planning whilst ensuring the interests of consumers remain paramount."

ENDS