Many councils seem to be trying to get energy policy right, and have written strict requirements in their Local Development Plans to achieve a high standard of sustainability and energy efficiency – often citing BREEAM and EcoHomes standards as the benchmark. Great, but the requirement will probably not apply to conservation areas and listed buildings.

That said, it is my understanding that the Department for Communities and Local Government is starting to see the light by advising councils that our planet is more important than conservation! So don’t give up hope, Paul, and challenge those planners for all our sakes!

Steve Broughton

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