The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) has issued the document Proposals for amending Part L of the Building Regulations and implementing the energy performance of the Building Directive for consultation. The ECA will be responding to this and wishes to canvas comments of members.

The main thrust of the proposals is to improve energy efficiency in new and refurbished buildings and reduce energy consumption in new buildings by 25%, hence lowering the production of greenhouse gases. This should be completed while maintaining standards for ventilation, indoor air quality and health.

Principal features include setting performance standards for buildings as a whole rather than just construction or services, and proposals for building inspections by competent individuals.

Subject to consultation, the new measures could come into force by 2005. To download a free copy of the document go to www.odpm.gov.uk.

Any member comments on the document should be sent to amelia.whitter@eca.co.uk.