Step out the way to allow more Forges, MP tells government
Chair of the Independent Review of Net Zero, MP Chris Skidmore says the government needs to “get out of the way” to enable more pioneering development of net zero buildings.
His comments came as he officially launched LandSec’s the Forge, SE1, the first commercial development designed with the UK Green Building Council’s definition of a net zero building.
Skidmore said he wanted to see buildings; such as the Forge; become the norm with every technological advance in the building.
Chair of the Independent Review of Net Zero, MP Chris Skidmore says the government needs to “get out of the way” to enable more pioneering development of net zero buildings.
His comments came as he officially launched LandSec’s the Forge, SE1, the first commercial development designed with the UK Green Building Council’s definition of a net zero building.
Skidmore said he wanted to see buildings; such as the Forge; become the norm with every technological advance in the building.
He said: “There are too many barriers when it comes to planning that is getting in the way of businesses to achieve net zero. Government needs to get out of the way and enable pioneers to get on and innovate.”
The Forge, which is 140,000 sq ft, is part of LandSec’s planned 1m sq ft green cluster in Southwark. The scheme, which comprises of two buildings Bronze and Phospur, is designed to achieve WELL Gold Core certification, NABERS UK Five Stars and BREEAM Excellent.
Oliver Knight, head of workplace at LandSec, said: “The Forge is a landmark space with the potential to transform the way the industry approaches sustainable construction. The techniques we’ve used have allowed us to deliver a truly net-zero space which doesn’t compromise on design, amenities or location.”
Skidmore added: “The Independent Review of Net Zero acknowledged that improving operational energy and reducing embodied carbon in commercial buildings can bring competitive advantages to UK businesses. The approach taken at The Forge shows what can be achieved when sustainability is embedded into the design and operation of a space.”
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Photo from LandSec
