RAINWATER MANAGEMENT
is a significant opportunity to repair our relationship with water, and start using it as a resource, rather than funnelling it out of town as fast as possible. Ultimately, planning reforms announced by the new Chancellor need to tackle the growing water challenge made more drastic by the changing climate.” The reintroduction of mandatory housing targets, of 370,000 houses per year, as outlined by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, also came under the spotlight from the company. Hot and Cold Product Manager Andrew Coy described the targets as “a crucial step towards addressing the UK’s longstanding housing shortage.”
WATER FOCUS IS VITAL TO
BUILDING TARGETS
The new Government’s much-heralded ambitions to get the country building more homes will need a real clarity on water management if it is to succeed, as BMJ finds out.
C
larity on water needs to be a top priority in planning reform if the new government wants to repair the UK’s broken relationship with our most
precious resource. That’s according to Martin Lambley, Global Product Manager for Urban Climate Resilience at Wavin.
Speaking after the new Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, used her first
speech to promise to overhaul planning restrictions and get Britain building again, Lambley said: “The industry will welcome this ambition, but everyone needs clarity on water regulations if we want our new developments to be resistant to the extreme weather that we’re likely to see more of in coming years. “Water regulations that affect the planning process have been dripping through over the past decade, as the Flood and Water Management Act is slowly implemented in inconsistent chunks. We need this legislation, but the lack of clarity on when and how it needs to be executed means that its positive impact is being severely limited.
“We’ll only get the best from technologies such as Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) if developers are clear on their responsibilities well in advance – having to comply halfway through a project or a design always leads to an imperfect solution.
“The new government has introduced ambitious new housebuilding targets. This
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However, he added that achieving these targets will require a balanced approach that prioritises both quantity and quality. “Plumbing and drainage systems are fundamental to the longevity and performance of any building. Reliable and durable infrastructure is essential for protecting homes from water damage, preventing costly repairs, and ensuring the overall health and wellbeing of residents. Plastic push-fit systems offer a compelling solution for large-scale housing projects by significantly accelerating installation times, reducing labour costs, and providing long-term durability,” he said. “The economic implications of housing targets extend beyond mere construction figures. The successful delivery of new homes can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and revitalise communities. By adopting efficient and cost-effective building methods, such as those enabled by plastic push-fit plumbing systems, developers can optimise project timelines and budgets, contributing to overall economic efficiency. Moreover, a focus on long-lasting, low-maintenance solutions aligns with the broader economic benefits of building quality. Simply put, homes that require fewer repairs and replacements over their lifespan reduce ongoing maintenance costs for homeowners and contribute to the overall financial wellbeing of the housing sector.
“Beyond efficient plumbing indoors, effective water management is also key to creating resilient and sustainable communities. Innovative guttering and drainage systems play a vital role in protecting homes and infrastructure from flooding, erosion, and other water-related damage. By investing in advanced water management solutions, developers can not only safeguard their properties but also contribute to the overall wellbeing of the surrounding community. “As the housing sector evolves, Wavin is committed to providing innovative and sustainable solutions that not only support the government’s ambitious housing targets but also contribute to the long-term economic viability of new housing developments. By working collaboratively with developers, policymake. BMJ
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net September 2024
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