Too hot, too cold?

 From the BEO:
___

Announcement title:Overheating and planning update

Dear Residents,

I hope everyone is well.

We recognise that the recently published revision of the National Planning Policy Framework following a campaign by the Duke of Westminster to modernise historic buildings. Policy CC3 (at page 30) now requires that "Substantial weight should be given to the benefits of improving the resilience of existing buildings and public spaces to anticipated climate change impacts.", which relaxes planning guidance when adapting listed buildings for climate change an important development for residents.

We also understand that long-term planning is critical, particularly when considering how our buildings can respond to increasingly frequent periods of hot weather. However, we also need to make sure that we can identify and deliver practical measures that can support residents in the shorter term. We are already working on this.

Our heating and overheating study by AMBUE is due to conclude later this year and will help us better understand the risks and identify appropriate measures for our diverse buildings. Alongside this work, we are already developing options and proposals for next summer, so that we can consider timely, project-based interventions to support residents during periods of hot weather.

Following the recent planning announcement, we have also specifically asked our consultants to consider the new guidance and its implications as part of their study. We want to ensure that it is properly reflected in their assessment recommendations, including any opportunities it may provide for future interventions.

This means we are taking a two-track approach:

• Long term: using the study and wider building planning work to establish a robust approach to overheating and climate resilience.
• Short term: developing practical measures and proposals that could be implemented ahead of, or during, next summer where appropriate.

We appreciate that residents need both a clear long-term plan and confidence that action is being taken now. We are therefore not waiting for the longer-term strategy to be completed before considering what can be done in the immediate future.

Once the study is complete and we have considered the consultants' findings alongside the updated planning guidance, we will be able to provide a clearer picture of the measures being considered and the next steps for residents.

I am conscious that I am writing about overheating just as it getting colder and the heating is about to come on! So, please be assured that that work is also being done to address this.