Book Description

THIS PUBLICATION HAS BEEN ARCHIVED.

Whilst this publication can still be purchased some of the information in it has been superseded by more recent research and standards. The BRE Group does not accept any responsibility whatsoever for any loss or damage, including - without limitation - indirect or consequential loss or damage arising from use, or loss of use, of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this document.


More new homes are needed in the UK, and the government's Sustainable Communities Plan identifies areas of run down older housing for regeneration. But is mass clearance the most sustainable way to create lasting communties for the future?

This Information Paper outlines the conclusions of research by the College of Estate Management, sponsored by BRE Trust, into the relative advantages of the two approaches to housing renewal - demolition and renewal, or refurbishment - "knock it down or do it up". A full report of the research is available as BRE Trust report FB16.

8 pages.

Contents:
Introduction
Key findings
How was the research done?
What is the scale of the dilemma?
Why has demolition become controversial?
Why is demolition and new build attractive?
What are the drivers for refurbishment?
What is the link between heritage, conservation and sustainability?
How is sustainability measured?
Why is whole-life costing analysis difficult?
Which costs more?
How does VAT affect refurbishment?
Are sustainable construction methods being used?
Does the development industry have the necessary skills?
What needs to be done?
References