Weekly Policy Update |
up to Monday 24th November 2025
Information provided by National Constructing Excellence
Government announcements
Government expands Boiler Upgrade Scheme subsidies to include air-to-air heat pump
The government has announced an expansion to its Boiler Upgrade Scheme (open to homeowners and some small businesses) to cover air-to-air (A2A) heat pumps which can provide both heat and cooling. The scheme had previously only covered air and ground source heat pumps providing heat to a wet central heating system. A subsidy of £2,500 will be available towards the cost of installing an A2A system. The Times reports that the typical cost of installing an A2A heat pump is about £4,500.
DESNZ launches consultation on the role of alternative clean heating solutions
The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero has published a consultation seeking views on low carbon technologies that could be used in properties that may not be suitable for heat pumps and heat networks. The government is interested in alternative technologies across different types of domestic and non-domestic buildings to ensure customers have a choice of suitable low-carbon heating technology options. Please contact me or Laura if you have any thoughts on the consultation.
Scottish Government will not take forward Heat in Buildings Bill, in this parliament
Scottish government Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan has stated Scotland will not introduce a Heat in Buildings Bill in the current session of the Scottish Parliament. Elections for a new parliament are due in May 2026. Scottish government blamed delays to the UK government’s Warm Homes Plan and lack of clarity on cost of energy bills. The Heat and Buildings Bill set out policy measures to deliver against Scotland’s target of fully decarbonised heating in buildings by 2045, including minimum energy efficiency standards for some properties.
Housebuilding around train stations will be given default “yes” if they meet certain rules
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has announced that housebuilders will be encouraged to build more homes near train stations. Additionally, as reported by the Financial Times this week, councils will also be required to tell the government when they intend to reject new housing developments of 150 homes or more.
Government publishes the Renters’ Rights Act implementation roadmap
The government has published a roadmap for the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
Environment Audit Committee calls for more action on embodied carbon and on nature
The parliamentary Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has published a report that (as covered in a RICS article) identifies the need for increased measurement and reduction of embodied carbon to ensure the UK can align its housing ambitions with its net zero commitments. The EAC report also discussed nature: the Committee found that the measures contained in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, passing through final stages in Parliament, are not enough to allow the government to meet its targets on both the environment and housing.
Building Advisory Committee
The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is seeking an independent Chair for its Building Advisory Committee (BAC). The successful candidate will demonstrate proven leadership to drive the BAC, which advises BSR on building functions, focusing on emerging issues, industry trends, and engagement to inspire change. The BAC operates via a high-level steering group and dedicated subgroups.
This is an ongoing fixed-term appointment for up to three years. Applications close midday on Monday 5 January 2026.
Further details can be found here.
Built Environment Competence Hub
The Industry Competence Steering Group, in collaboration with the British Standards Institution, is launching the Built Environment Competence Hub, a central space for professionals to access the latest competence frameworks, standards and practical guidance—all in one trusted location. The Hub will be launched in January 2026 and it is designed for all those working in the built environment sector, including designers, contractors, regulators and anyone involved in competence development or oversight. The Competence Hub and registration details can be found here
In the news
Manchester mayor bets £1bn on ‘good growth fund’ project drive | Construction Enquirer News
Councils in England to lose power to block large housing projects
UK government’s housebuilding target under threat as councils face exodus of planners
New homes delivery in England falls 6% year-on-year | News | Building
One in 40 construction workers injured in last three years | Construction News