Government Must Do More To Tackle Efficiency Of Existing Stock

24 July 2007

The Construction Products Association today welcomed the publication of the government’s Green Paper on Housing, but said that government must do more to tackle the efficiency of existing stock.

Michael Ankers, Chief Executive, said: “The Construction Products Association welcomes confirmation of the Prime Minister’s commitment to a higher level of house building over a substantial period of time.  The problems that arise from insufficient housing supply are all too evident and there is no short term fix, as was illustrated in the Barker report.  We are particularly pleased to see a sharp increase in social and affordable housing.  This is not just a problem for public sector employees but is also a concern for many private sector employers throughout the country. 

“The Association also welcomes the focus on higher environmental standards for the new housing of the future.  Within the construction industry, manufacturers and suppliers are already responding positively to the need for products and solutions to deliver zero carbon homes.  Alongside this they continue to develop construction methods and materials which have a low environmental impact.  However, the government must ensure that the new housing is supported by the right level of investment in infrastructure. Without this investment they will fail the test of true sustainability and will only be storing up problems for the future.

“Whilst overall we welcome the green paper, we are disappointed that it does not address the problems of existing housing.  Based on current building and demolition rates around 70 percent of current housing will still be in use in 2050.  This existing stock is the most energy and water inefficient, with far too many properties not of a ‘decent’ standard.  It is important that the government addresses the standards for existing stock alongside those for new houses. 

“The government must act to incentivise those who purchase older properties to implement improvements identified as beneficial in the new Energy Performance Certificates.  The government should also consider whether it is appropriate to continue to charge the full rate of VAT on products that will help householders save energy and water.”