POS response to the Future Homes and Buildings Standards 2023 consultation

27 March 2024

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POS maintains its position as in previous consultation responses on this topic in 2023 that the Future Homes Standard should be embedded in the Building Regulations and that planning should therefore no longer need to have their own standard so that as a nation we reach net zero as quickly as possible. Elements that relate to the fabric of a dwelling, its services and how they are used are matters that are best dealt with through Building Control. Matters relating to site layout, orientation, spatial distribution, proximity to amenities, employment etc are matters that need to be discharged through the planning process. 

Considering the above points, POS would suggest that Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE), Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), local Government Association (LGA) are engaged. Many local authorities have declared a Climate Emergency and are looking to Local Plans to help set standards to reduce carbon emissions. Government will need to be clear that this change will be met by Building Regulations for new build homes. 

The consultation from Department Levelling Up Housing and Communities can be viewed here https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards-2023-consultation/the-future-homes-and-buildings-standards-2023-consultation