GGF in discussions with assembly over welsh building regulations

The Welsh Assembly is keen to have control over Building Regulations for Wales although the principality does not have the resources required to implement greater control in the short term. It is clear therefore that the Assembly must turn to industry for dialogue on what may be achieved and by when. The aim is to set standards higher than those being considered for England.

Meetings took place to establish the authority and knowledge of the GGF and to establish regular consultation throughout the process of the Assembly moving towards its own Building Regulations. Further discussions concerned the Federation’s campaign to reduce VAT on home improvements and other fiscal incentives.

The general view was that the establishment of Welsh Building Regulations are ‘When’ rather than ‘If’ and that preparation should include the maintenance of a dialogue with the GGF in the build up to their creation. Nigel Rees emphasised the need for consistency in glazing standards throughout the UK to control cost and prevent confusion over compliance with Regulations. However, the members clearly wanted to see Wales take a lead in the fight to combat climate change and intend to set their own standards.

Nigel Rees was left with the view through his observations and assurances from others involved with the process that pursuit of Welsh Building Regulations is high on the agenda of the Welsh Assembly and is not likely to be stopped, although the timescale has yet to be established.

He believes that close attention will be paid to ensure glazing is well considered: “Clearly glazing is a key issue in any Building Standards and we want to ensure that an ideal balance is achieved between specification of the highest performance, against the realities of cost and logistics. We have already established an excellent rapport with key Assembly Members and other officers involved with the process. We will pursue this with considerable vigour over the coming months.”

Ends

Photo caption: The general view following the GGF discussions with the Welsh Assembly over the creation of specific Building Regulations for Wales is that it will happen ‘When’ rather than ‘If’.

For further information contact:

Paul Godwin, VAST PR, 0845 0945 215; email paul@vastpr.co.uk; Lis Chapelhow, GGF, Public Relations Assistant, 020 7207 5859

Notes to editors:

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF)

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is the primary trade association for companies that make, supply or fit flat glass and related products representing more than 60% of the industry’s turnover. As such the GGF is the recognised leading authority for employers and companies within the flat glass, glazing, window, home improvement, plastics and window film industries. This includes double glazing, Energy Efficient Windows, replacement windows, doors, conservatories, applied film, hardware, safety glazing, sealants, fire resistant glass, emergency glazing, decorative glass, secondary glazing, solar control and plastics.

The GGF provides information for homeowners, professional specifiers and anyone seeking professional and unbiased information on any aspect of glass and glazing in the UK. GGF members supply replacement windows, doors, conservatories and Energy Efficient Wind-ows in all framing materials including Aluminium, PVC-U, Steel and Timber

The GGF is a great promoter of energy efficient glazing and the GGF’s Carbon Calculator enables homeowners and others to see how much money and carbon can be saved by installing new Energy Efficient Windows.

Architects and Specifiers are well supported with a range of literature and professional advisors to assist with all aspects of specification and related issues. GGF Members sign up to the Federation’s Code of Good Practice and are vetted before being accepted. A free conciliation service is provided for mediation between customers and supplying member companies when required.

For further information go to: www.ggf.org.uk