October 2013 has heralded some important changes for all those involved in the design and construction of housing. The Department for Communities and Local Government indicated the overall scope, but not yet the detail of the new Building Regulations Part L (conservation of fuel and power) 2013, due to come in force from April 2014.

Deadlines also closed for consultations on two sets of proposed far-reaching changes to regulations on house building: Housing Standards Review, consultation August 2013. Next steps to zero carbon homes: Allowable solutions, consultation August 2013.

These three interlinked proposals will radically change the process for planning approval and design, and will require new carbon costing methods for site development and are likely to require new dwelling designs.