DCLG Confirms introduction of Structural Eurocodes

The DCLG was now formally announced a suite of eurocodes to replace the British Standard versions relating to Structural design. They are intended to remove potential barriers to trade where differing design standards exist. There are ten Eurocodes, made up of 58 parts that are being adopted by all EU Member states.. The corresponding British Standards will be withdrawn on 31st March 2010.
DCLG, also announces proposed changes to the Approved Documents, Parts A (Structure) and C (Site preparation, etc) will be part of their review cycle and is expected to be in 2013..This is to meet their earlier announcement that they will reduce the Building Regulation changes to one every three years and amend Parts normally no more than once every six years.

DCLG issues statement on New Part G.

Tracy Cull, Head of Building Control System Policy at DCLG this week issued a statement to confirm that the New Part G will indeed come into force on the 6th April 2010 despite the fact that the rewording has yet to be resolved with Ministers’ sign off. They therefore acknowledge that there is to be a very short timescale between the publication and the implementation of Part G.

Please remember there are transitional arrangements which permit the use of the current Part G provided the Initial notice has been served and a plan certificate has been issued to cover these elements of works. The works must also commence within 12 months to adopt the current guidance.

Clearly this is unfortunate however the transitional arrangements offer some breathing space if developers act now!