• BNG is now a legal and mandatory process (as of 12th February)

As of 12th February 2024, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is now mandatory for many developments, and those seeking planning permission must include a biodiversity plan as a component of their application.¹ The biodiversity plan must outline how the biodiversity value after development will surpass the pre-development biodiversity value by a minimum of 10%. 

But what does this mean for developers? Thomson Environmental Consultants, a leading UK environmental consultancy, explains how to achieve BNG.

Does BNG affect all developments?

Not all developments will be subject to BNG as of 12th February. It will become mandatory for ‘small sites’ on 2nd April 2024 and is expected to extend to nationally significant infrastructure projects in late November 2025.

Developments that do not impact an onsite priority habitat (as set out in a list published under section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006) and where the impact of the development on other habitats will be minimal will not be considered. Other sites that will not be affected include:

• Householder applications.
• Planning permissions concerning high-speed railway transport networks.
• Biodiversity gain sites.
• Self-build and custom-build applications.

How to achieve BNG

Developers must include a biodiversity metric tool calculation in their planning application, displaying the site’s pre-development biodiversity value. They must also specify how the BNG requirement will be met, whether on-site or off-site, for the Local Planning Authority to approve.

 The following steps are used to calculate biodiversity net gain or loss:

1. A field survey is undertaken to collect pre-development habitat data.
2. Post-development habitat data is defined using the landscaping plans.
3. Pre-development and post-development habitat data are converted into ‘biodiversity units’. Additional biodiversity units may be added to post-development data using off-site compensation or biodiversity credits, where this is the case, the off-site compensation area will require a field survey to collect pre-development habitat data.
4. The Biodiversity Net Gain or Loss is calculated using the difference between the pre-development and post-development habitat data. It is often presented as a percentage.

Many metrics have been developed for calculating BNG, including the Defra Biodiversity Metric. However, this has recently been updated and replaced by the Statutory Biodiversity Metric calculation tool (or The Small Sites Metric, where applicable). This includes a spreadsheet-based calculator, which improves the ease of BNG calculations.

What if I can’t deliver BNG on-site?

The delivery of biodiversity gains on-site is encouraged; however, if this is not possible, guidance and provisions are available to developers to purchase off-site biodiversity units through a private off-site market. This will include the costs of monitoring and maintaining the land for a minimum of 30 years. Statutory biodiversity credits will also be available to purchase, which will be invested in habitat creation. 

Possible barriers faced by BNG

Regarding costings and project expectations, a government-run statutory credit scheme will be available as a last resort to prevent delays in the planning system. Developers can also pay for improvements on other sites by purchasing “units” via a private, off-site market. However, to buy units, or credits, property developers must demonstrate that they cannot deliver habitat onsite or via the off-site market. With credits costing between £42,000 and £650,000 plus VAT, this will significantly add to overall project costs where off-site enhancements are required.

Paul Franklin, Associate Director of Ecology at Thomson Environmental Consultants, summarises: “It’s important to remember that Biodiversity Net Gain will affect the property development process at all stages and phases. 

“We strongly recommend early engagement with a consultant when undertaking due diligence on a prospective purchase, including consideration of the long-term monitoring and management of created habitats. In many cases, this will be a period of 30 years post-development.

“Ensure you speak with consultants who are strong experts in conducting habitat surveys and condition assessments to ensure you have the best chance to achieve the desired biodiversity net gain.” 

To find out more about Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) and Thomson Environmental Consultants services, please visit: https://www.thomsonec.com/services/ecology-services/biodiversity-net-gain-bng/ 

As the high streets and shopping centres of the United Kingdom face unprecedented change, the insight of industry leaders like Scott Dylan, the co-founder of Inc & Co, becomes invaluable. In a world where the very fabric of consumer interaction is constantly being redesigned, Dylan’s anticipation of retail trends propels forward-thinking businesses towards a transformative horizon. With a focus on evolving retail spaces, his perspective sheds light on the changes in retail commercial property, urging stakeholders to embrace adaptability and customer-focused innovation.

Grasping the essence of current consumer expectations, Dylan charts a course for the retail industry that harmonises digital commerce with the tangible allure of brick-and-mortar stores. This synergy fosters environments where traditional retail strategies intertwine with a tech-driven approach, invigorating the marketplace and inspiring businesses to scale new heights. Those who succeed in anticipating retail trends will not only endure but thrive, crafting spaces that resonate with modernity and timeless appeal alike.

Tracing the Transformation of Retail Spaces

The retail industry has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, tracking the footprints of its storied heritage to today’s bold advance into the digital age. Pioneers such as John D. Rockefeller and Thomas Edison pioneered the groundwork for what has become a bustling labyrinth of evolving retail spaces. These magnates set the parameters that are still pivotal to the designs and business methods that characterise the contemporary retail landscape.

Christianity has always been renowned for its historical evolution, from the simple market stalls that festooned the thoroughfares of ancient civilizations to the elaborate emporiums that symbolize modern commerce. Today, digital transformation has married the time-honoured practice of trade with the convenience and reach of the digital realm, sparking a new wave of economic development with far-reaching implications for the future of the retail industry.

In this relentless pursuit of progress, we have seen how traditional retail has been compelled to evolve with agility and creativity, reinventing itself in response to the inexorable march of technology. With the advent of advanced digital technologies, retail spaces have transcended physical limitations, allowing entrepreneurs to interact with customers on a global scale, hence redefining the essence of consumer experience.

Scott Dylan details this narrative transition from physical marketplaces to the digital storefronts of today. Through his lens, we recognise the ever-growing symbiosis of technology and entrepreneurship, a partnership that continues to drive the evolution of retail spaces.

This journey of retail space transformation is not simply a trend but an echo of human progression, where the essence of innovation has been and continues to be the primary catalyst for change. It is a journey that looks toward a future where the once clear lines between physical and virtual shopping experiences are increasingly blurred, reflecting the changing fabric of consumer expectations and the retail industry at large.

Adaptive Retail Environments and Customer-Centric Design

Scott Dylan’s vision for the retail sector epitomises the concept of adaptive retail environments, engineered around the core principles of customer-centric design. This future-forward approach to retail space development focuses on creating a seamless and engaging consumer experience. Informed by an in-depth understanding of the customer’s evolving preferences, these designs are nimble, ready to transform alongside ever-changing consumer behaviour and market trends.

Transforming retail architecture under Dylan’s guidance acknowledges the necessity for retail spaces to function as interactive shopping experiences. This dynamic allows consumers to move beyond the traditional transactions of yesteryear and step into a world where their journey is enhanced by real-world curation, interactivity, and specialised services tailored to their unique demands.

In response to challenges such as those posed by the pandemic, there is a clear imperative for retail to not just innovate but outpace the pressing demands of the era. Dylan envisions spaces that can pivot with agility, offering immersive and engaging experiences that resonate on a local and global scale.

Indeed, the potential to reconfigure retail spaces into more agile, responsive, and locally attuned environments, especially in light of the Covid-19 crisis in 2020, has never been more apparent. It can be seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate the commercial landscape, where the very essence of interactions is attuned to the narrative of individuality and personalised service.

The culmination of these efforts leads to retail locations that not only meet but anticipate customer desires, fostering an atmosphere of community and connection—essentials in the quest to maintain relevance in an increasingly digitalised world. Therefore, the future of retail lies in its ability to adapt—continuously and creatively—to the ebb and flow of consumer desires and the pulse of technological innovation.

Evolving Retail Spaces: Integrating Emerging Technology

In the present day, emerging retail technology stands at the forefront of the metamorphosis within retail spaces, ingeniously charting the course of the industry. Scott Dylan, a seasoned digital entrepreneur, harnesses the transformative power of this technology, melding it with the consummate skill of a maestro, to redefine consumer engagement. His expertise in implementing digital tools and predictive analytics positions him as an oracle within the retail revolution.

The utilisation of artificial intelligence and big data analytics has become progressively ubiquitous, signifying a trend that is reshaping the retail experience. These tools enable a level of personalisation hitherto unfathomable, offering consumers the same individuated treatment online as they would receive in the personal space of a high-street shop.

Through a digital-first strategy, retail spaces are evolving beyond mere points of purchase into vibrant hubs of innovation and interaction. Technological integration not only streamlines the shopping process but also equips retailers with the essential insights that guide astute business decisions. This paradigm shift, underpinned by the vision of digital entrepreneurs, is leading to an era where retail spaces cease to be static, transitioning instead into dynamic ecosystems that thrive on adaptability and customer-centric experiences.

At the vanguard of this movement, Dylan articulates a future where technology serves as both a catalyst and conduit for retail’s evolution, unwavering in his belief that enriching the consumer journey with technological finesse is the quintessence of modern retail.

The burgeoning realm of retail technology thus transcends mere transactional exchanges, invoking an immersive world that entices the senses and invites participation. As retail ventures throughout the United Kingdom brace for a digitalised future, the imperative for integration of cutting-edge tools in the ever-changing retail landscape has never been clearer.

The Impact of Digitalisation on Brick-and-Mortar Stores

The realm of retail is witnessing a seismic shift as the digitalisation impact reverberates through the very foundations of physical brick-and-mortar stores. Scott Dylan, renowned for his keen insights on digital enterprise transformation, observes a profound redefinition in retail structures, precipitated by the ascent of online business models. This paradigmatic transition is not so much a substitution as it is a strategic augmentation and integration of digital capabilities with traditional commerce.

Revolutionised by digital frameworks, retail spaces have acquired a newfound agility, enabling rapid scaling and expansion across global markets. E-commerce startups and digital emporiums now serve as exemplars of adaptability, showcasing the versatility and resilience required to navigate the currents of online business growth. Yet, whilst digitalisation presents unmatched opportunities for expansion, it concurrently poses the challenge of remaining pertinent in an economy that is increasingly digital-first.

Scott Dylan accentuates the criticality of innovation within the retail sector, emphasising that maintaining relevance in today’s digitised economy necessitates a continuous commitment to adapt and evolve. It is this driving force for innovation that could spell the future survival and success of retail establishments the world over.

The consumer landscape has become one where expectations are as transient as the technology that shapes them. Dylan’s perspective foregrounds the importance of businesses embracing digital enterprise transformation to meet and exceed these shifting consumer expectations. It is an endeavour that requires a complex tapestry of solutions, including interactive online interfaces, responsive supply chain mechanisms, and data-driven decision-making processes ingrained into the operations of brick-and-mortar entities.

In summation, digitalisation’s impact, not unlike a double-edged sword, empowers and challenges the conventional brick-and-mortar stores. To thrive amidst the dynamism of digitalisation, Scott Dylan suggests that a fusion of innovation and agility must be at the heart of any retail business strategy — a beacon guiding the transformation of retail spaces in this relentlessly evolving digital epoch.

Scott Dylan’s Insight on Future Retail Industry Trends

Focusing on future retail industry trends, Scott Dylan recognises the crucial role of innovative thinking and nurturing an innovation culture in the sustainability and success of retail businesses. In an ever-changing landscape, the scalability and adaptability of operations are what separate thriving entities from those that stagnate. According to Dylan, central to a retail business’s scalability is the integration of an innovation-led approach that informs and transforms every aspect of the organisation’s strategy and execution.

With the UK’s retail industry at a crossroads, Dylan’s insights suggest that successful enterprises will be those that view scalability not as an end goal but as a continuous process rooted in innovation. This includes fostering a culture where ideas bloom from all hierarchies within the organisation, constituting a democratic approach to innovation that empowers and encourages each member of the workforce to contribute to the business’s growth.

Dylan advocates, “The future of retail requires a crucible of collaborative thought; an environment that not only accepts change but thrives on it. Embracing an open exchange of ideas is imperative and must become part of the very DNA of a retail organisation.”

It is Dylan’s belief that scalability must be underpinned by a strong foundation in forward-thinking and innovative practices. This ethos, he notes, results in groundbreaking product developments and transformative processes that redefine the customer experience. By adopting a democratic approach to business management, small businesses, in particular, stand to gain a competitive edge, propelling them toward profitable scalability and robust market presence.

In a dynamic marketplace, the retail businesses that can acclimate to fluctuating consumer demands, while contributing innovatively to their sector, are the ones that will define the future trend of retail. Therefore, embedding an innovation culture as the cornerstone of business strategy, as highlighted by Dylan’s philosophy, becomes essential for retailers aiming to scale and succeed in the unfolding narrative of the UK’s retail industry.

Evolving Consumer Trends and Their Impact on Retail

The retail landscape is currently undergoing a significant transition, influenced by the evolving consumer behaviour that is shaping the industry’s future. Observing these changes, industry experts like Scott Dylan emphasise the necessity for retailers to reassess their strategies to align with the emerging consumer trends impacting consumer preferences. Innovative store layouts and an increased focus on local enterprise are key elements in this new retail paradigm. Retailers who seek to thrive in this environment are required to not just respond to but to anticipate these shifts in behaviour.

Retailers face the challenge of creating spaces that blend the comfort and familiarity of traditional shopping experiences with the convenience and innovation inherent in digital offerings. Scott Dylan underscores the growing expectation among consumers for more than just transactional exchanges — they demand personalised, enriching encounters whenever they enter a retail space. To meet this need, the concept of curated experiences within retail settings has come to the forefront.

Furthermore, the impact of changing workplace dynamics — with more individuals spending increased time in local areas — presents a defining opportunity for retail spaces. There is a burgeoning demand for shops that capture the essence of the community, offering specialised services and products that reflect local culture and needs. As the high street reinforces its position as a cornerstone of daily life, the local enterprise is poised to offer an authentic connection to the rhythm of the neighbourhood it serves.

The implications for retailers are clear. As consumer behaviour continues its inexorable evolution, the retail sector must adapt by cultivating environments that are innovative, responsive, and grounded in community ethos. This proactive approach ensures that retail spaces remain at the cutting edge of consumer trends, offering engaging experiences that resonate with customers’ shifting values and expectations.

The integration of innovative store designs with local enterprise sensibilities stands as the fulcrum upon which the future of retail pivots. Embracing such consumer trends does not merely create opportunities for retail growth; it future-proofs businesses against the rapidly changing tides of consumer demand and maintains their relevance in an increasingly competitive and digitised marketplace.

The Role of Sustainability in Retail Commercial Property Development

In an era marked by mounting environmental concerns and consumer-centric imperatives, sustainability in retail has burgeoned into a cornerstone principle for businesses and developers alike. Visionary leaders like Scott Dylan are cognisant of the trajectory that commercial property development must take to cater to these evolving needs. As society grapples with the urgency of a climate-changing reality, there is an unmistakable shift towards spaces reflective of not only economic viability but also steadfast ecological integrity.

These progressive overlays in retail strategies are embodied in the growing trend towards consumer-conscious retail consumption, where shoppers are increasingly allying with brands that prioritise sustainability. The physical environments where such transactions take place are also under scrutiny. Retail commercial property development is undergoing a profound metamorphosis, spearheaded by the imperative to marry commerce with sustainability. This encompasses the development of mixed-use strategy spaces, which integrate retail alongside communal and social amenities, crafting a rich tableau of human-centric urban spaces.

Proponents of sustainable development such as Dylan advocate for an all-encompassing, sustainable strategy which ensures that retail environments do not just exist in harmony with their surroundings but reinforce the principles of renewable energy resources, waste minimisation, and eco-friendly design practices. It is this holistic and inclusive approach that is predicted to define the future of retail spaces, rendering them resilient in the face of both market transitions and environmental exigencies. Retailers and property developers must, therefore, embrace this paradigm, forging ahead to create commercial spaces that resonate with the ethos of sustainability at their core.

In the intricate world of commercial property, disputes can occur often and, if not effectively resolved, landlords and tenants can become embroiled in lengthy legal battles, risking their investments and disrupting their business operations.

Commercial property disputes might relate to any type of commercial property, whether an industrial building, an office or retail space. These disputes are often complicated and involve complex areas of law, meaning they can be costly and time-consuming for all parties involved. Therefore, it is important to understand the legal options available for resolving them.

Here is some advice on how to avoid a commercial property dispute arising in the first place, and what to do in the event that conflict does occur.  

Preventing a dispute arising

Commercial landlord and tenant disagreements can occur over many issues. Some of the most common include breach of a covenant [for example, a tenant subletting part of the premises without their landlord’s consent as prescribed for in the lease agreement], serious damage to the property, the tenant causing a nuisance, service charges, insurance cover, maintenance of the property and the procedure for serving Notices on tenants.

To limit the potential for a dispute to arise it is important that the lines of communication are kept open from the offset so that, should there be an issue between landlord and tenant, it can be resolved at an early stage before it becomes too advanced. You should always be open to reasonable solutions and compromise to avoid disputes escalating or becoming impossible to resolve.

It is also vital to pay close attention to the clauses included in the lease of a property. Commercial property leases should be professionally drafted and scrutinised carefully by both parties before signing. It should be clear and cover every eventuality so that everyone, tenants and landlords, know where they stand.

A written log of any relevant incidents or correspondence can also prove helpful to refer to later on.

What to do when conflict arises

There is no one best way to resolve a commercial property dispute, and how the matter is best resolved largely depends on the circumstances and the complexity of the matter. For example, the parties may be able to negotiate between themselves, resolving the issue without legal intervention.

Where matters cannot be resolved informally, there are various options for commercial property dispute resolution.

‘Mediation’ is a type of alternative dispute resolution, where the parties are joined by a qualified mediator who acts as a neutral third party. The mediator assists both to work toward a resolution, without imposing any decision, and always remaining unbiased.

Mediation can be particularly appropriate where the parties involved wish to protect an ongoing business relationship. Generally, this is because mediation processes can be more amicable compared to Court proceedings, focused on open communication, and finding resolutions that are mutually acceptable where possible.

Through mediation, the parties that are in dispute are each invited to communicate their case and viewpoint to the arbitrator. The arbitrator’s role is then to evaluate each side of the argument, review the evidence, and make an unbiased, legally binding decision.

If it is unlikely that the parties involved will be able to reach a resolution between themselves, arbitration, if available or agreed to between the parties, is likely to be more suitable. Often, arbitration can be preferable in comparison to litigation. It is a private and confidential process, whereas Court processes are not always fully confidential, and certain details may become public depending on the circumstances.

If the dispute cannot be resolved by informal negotiations, or some form of alternative dispute resolution, it will be necessary to escalate the case to litigation processes. As litigation is more costly and time consuming, this is generally a last resort for dispute resolution.

Where disputes escalate and cannot be solved outside of Court, litigation may be the only available option to resolve matters. Where exercising this option, it is unlikely that the business relationship will be preserved, however, it may be the only option available to settle a dispute.

Conclusion

Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, your commercial premises are important to you and your future. Commercial property disputes require swift resolution to prevent a damaging situation to both parties – including potential loss of revenue and impact on business operations.

Litigation in commercial property disputes can be lengthy, expensive and complicated, and it is vital to take legal advice sooner rather than later to keep costs down. By seeking early legal advice, you can minimise any potential fallout and resolve matters quickly and effectively.

Yulia Barnes is founder and managing partner of Barnes Law

By Sarah Thompson, Managing Director, Mortgage Scout

Compared with a decade ago, today’s first-time buyers are older, more likely to buy with a partner and more likely to have dependent children. This highlights how getting on the property ladder is becoming increasingly hard for younger borrowers. However, lenders are always introducing new propositions to ensure solutions are in place to help prospective homeowners buy their first property. It could be you who helps them!

The 1980s, perhaps best known for its music and the invention of Super Mario, was a time when the average house price was £22,676 and the average deposit was £3,000. Fast forward to 2018, and we see a completely different picture: the average house price is £224,353, and the average deposit costs you £34,000. This shows a whopping growth of around 890% in house prices! However, wage growth hasn’t seen the same hike, so it is no surprise that borrowers are continuously finding it harder.

For many, the Bank of Mum and Dad seems like the only option. According to the Social Mobility Commission, over 30% of UK households with dependent children hold assets that could be used towards a deposit to purchase a home. This could lead to an increase in the number of first-time buyers turning to help from their family. The Social Mobility Commission’s research suggests this could rise to nearly 40% by 2039/40. Do you hold assets that could give your loved ones the gift of a lifetime?

Joint borrower, sole proprietor mortgages (JBSP)

JBSP mortgages are one solution that may help. They’re aimed at bridging the gap between salaries and house prices and are geared towards helping close family members get onto the property ladder or move home. Lend a helping hand to your children’s plans of purchasing their first home!

Joint borrower, sole proprietor mortgages allow you to support your family by adding your name to the mortgage, increasing income and increasing the maximum loan available. A JBSP mortgage is a financial arrangement where up to four individuals can jointly secure a mortgage, but only one person legally owns the property.

This type of mortgage is commonly chosen by parents who wish to help their children step onto the property ladder, but it’s also used by siblings or friends combining their incomes to buy a house with only one residing in it.

A key aspect of JBSP mortgages is that while all borrowers are jointly responsible for the mortgage repayments, reducing the risk for the lender, there’s also a collective liability. If one borrower fails to pay, the others must compensate for the shortfall. It’s, therefore, essential to enter into a JBSP mortgage with trusted individuals and clearly understand each other’s financial situations.

Only the sole owner of the property, the proprietor, is listed on the title deeds. This means other borrowers have no legal rights to the property or any increase in its value. Lenders usually stipulate that this individual must reside in the property. This arrangement is ideal for those who want to assist with a property purchase without retaining a long-term interest in it, allowing for an easy exit when the proprietor can take on the mortgage independently.

In terms of operation, JBSP mortgages are similar to standard mortgages. To evaluate affordability, lenders assess all borrowers’ financial circumstances, including income and outgoings. Borrowers must also meet the lender’s specific criteria, such as age limits and creditworthiness. The age limit for a JBSP mortgage typically caps at 70 or 80 years at the end of the mortgage term. When the initial fixed-rate or discount period ends, the sole owner has the option to remortgage solely in their name.

One of the advantages of a JBSP mortgage is its potential impact on Stamp Duty. Generally, purchasing a property with someone who already owns a home attracts a higher Stamp Duty rate. However, under a JBSP mortgage, the non-owning parties don’t trigger this additional charge.

Planning for unexpected scenarios, such as illness or unemployment, is prudent, like any mortgage. Income protection insurance can effectively ensure mortgage repayments and other bills are covered during such times.

Raising a deposit

Affordability is not the only challenge to first-time buyers and joint borrowers; sole proprietor mortgages may not be the best solution for everyone, so there are other options you may want to consider. If your loved ones cannot raise a deposit, you can still help. You can use your property or savings as security for their mortgage instead of gifting them a deposit. Many lenders are offering these types of products, too.

For the eighth year running, top 10 UK housebuilder Keepmoat is contributing to the future proofing of the housebuilding and construction sectors by developing a robust talent pipeline of highly skilled workers via its sought after higher apprenticeships. 

As the housebuilding and construction sectors battle an unprecedented shortfall in skilled workers, with 30,000 extra construction professionals needed by 2026, Keepmoat has announced its commitment to developing young people and creating career opportunities across the UK via apprenticeships and training schemes.

In 2024, Keepmoat will deliver at least 51 apprenticeships as the business continues to hire apprentices throughout the year. As it stands six of these will be delivered as higher apprenticeships, in which the trainee will gain a qualification that is equivalent to a degree.

Zain Shafi, 20, started his Level 6 Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship last September and chose the route over studying full time at university. He explains: “Construction was always of interest to me and I particularly wanted to explore an option with hands-on learning. 

“I gained employment with Keepmoat through the Government funded Kickstart Scheme, where I  worked for 25 hours per week for six months.  When I successful completed the Kickstart Scheme, I was offered a full-time role which gave me the opportunity to explore and enrol on my apprenticeship.”

“My favourite aspects include gaining practical skills in the building industry, meeting people and learning from mentors to increase my knowledge. I also enjoy the days I go into university to also improve my skillset from the classroom.”

Keepmoat has been delivering higher apprenticeships since 2016, and as part of these schemes the housebuilder offers qualifications in Quantity Surveying, Project Management, Engineering and HR in partnership with multiple universities including The University of Salford, Leeds Beckett University, the University of Sheffield and Liverpool John Moores.

Tim Beale, CEO at Keepmoat added: “The UK needs 30,000 extra construction professionals by 2026 to meet growing demand across the sector. As a specialist in providing local employment opportunities and training to inspire careers in construction, we’re addressing the skills shortage head-on by educating young people on the exciting opportunities available via our school outreach and apprenticeship programmes.

“The UK is also experiencing the ripples of an ageing population and the construction sector is set to see more skills leave the industry than any other area. By championing training and development and understanding that we have a clear responsibility to help deliver a sustainable future, we are prioritising education and training to inspire the next generation of employees. We have several initiatives in place to support the next generation of construction workers.”

To find out more, please visit: www.keepmoat.com/careers/apprenticeships

With cold weather closing in, it’s not surprising that people are concerned about the cost of living, and in particular, energy prices.

To help you avoid hefty energy bills this winter, we asked a variety of industry experts to reveal their top tips on how to retain heat in your apartment. From zero-cost switches to more long-term investments, these were the best pieces of advice.

Free and instant tweaks 

Don’t overheat your home

Jo Trotman, window and door designer at The Residence Collection, explains that to start with, you need to make sure your thermostat is set to a reasonable temperature:

“To save energy, you should set your thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature. Turning your thermostat down by just one degree could help you save around £60 a year on your heating bill. Always wear an extra layer before you turn to the thermostat.”

Nick Duggan, managing director at The Radiator Centre, says between 18 and 21°C is a good temperature:

“The ideal temperature for a room is between 18-21C, every extra degree adds around 10% to the average heating bill, so it’s important to ensure your radiators are working as efficiently as possible.”

Bleed radiators

Nick Duggan explains that it’s important to make sure your radiators are running efficiently:

“Bleeding radiators at least once a year is a must to ensure they are operating efficiently. Over time, air will build up in radiators. This means that you will not be benefitting from the radiator’s full heat potential, which may mean you are tempted to turn the heating up or keep it on for longer, both of which will add to the cost.”

Clean your radiators

Perhaps surprisingly, radiators require regular cleaning, as Nancy Emery, heating expert at Tap Warehouse, outlines:

 “A quick and easy fix is to regularly clean your radiator to ensure it’s heating up as well as possible. Over time, they’re likely to become a little dirty and dusty which can affect the efficiency of the radiator, so it’s important to vacuum in and around your radiator once a week and brush the dirt from the inside. It’s always a good idea to also clean the outside of your radiator once a week with warm, soapy water and a sponge.”

Don’t block radiators

Jo Trotman stresses why you should avoid blocking radiators:

“Blocked radiators make it harder for warm air to circulate your home. Having space around your radiators could reduce the amount of energy needed to keep your space warm.”

Open your curtains in the daytime

Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV, illustrates how your curtains can be used to trap heat from the sun:

“Another simple yet effective strategy for retaining warmth in your home is to keep curtains open during the day and close them when it gets dark. During daylight hours, allowing sunlight to penetrate through the windows will help to utilise the natural heat from the sun. In the evening, closing the curtains creates an additional layer of insulation which helps to trap the warmth generated during the day and prevents it from escaping through the windows.”

Cover your walls

Oliver Creevy, co-founder of Insulation Advisor, explains how covering walls with furniture, or even decorative homewares, can prevent heat loss:

“Covering walls with items such as picture frames, mirrors, or bookcases serves a dual purpose of adding both style and thermal efficiency to the room. These objects add thermal mass, acting as insulators that prevent heat loss through walls and enhancing the thermal efficiency of a living space.”

Move your furniture

Debbie Leigh recommends repositioning your furniture so it’s not against an external wall:

“Think about the position of your furniture and if possible, arrange sofas and chairs away from your external walls as they are often the coolest and can make you feel cold.”

Put ceiling fans on reverse

Sophia Phillips, lifestyle expert at CouponBirds, shares a hack for anyone with ceiling fans:

“Although they’re not particularly common in the UK, if you do have any ceiling fans in your apartment, try putting them on reverse so the blades turn clockwise. This allows warm air that is trapped near the ceiling to circulate around the room.”

Close vents in unused rooms

Oliver Creevy shares a tip for anyone with a rarely-used space such as a spare room:

“It’s a good idea to close any vents in rooms that are not in use. This allows the airflow from the heating system to be directed more efficiently towards the occupied spaces, ensuring that the warmth is concentrated where it is needed most.”

Longer-term investments

Buy a humidifier

Sophia Phillips suggests buying a humidifier:

“Humid air keeps warm better than dry air. Buying a humidifier is a small expense but can save you a large amount of money. What’s more, humid air can prevent your skin from getting dryer and keep it in good condition.

“Mini humidifiers can be purchased for around £20. As a bonus, you could even add a couple of drops of essential oil to the water to fragrance the room.”

Install window film

Stephen Day, founder of iHeat outlines how window film can reduce heat loss:

“Window insulation film is a plastic film which can be applied to glass windows to reduce heat transfer. It’s a cost-effective way to improve the insulation of existing windows, especially in older properties.”

Use rugs to insulate floors

Shaun Starr, exergy expert at Love Energy Savings explains how to prevent heat loss through the floor:

“You may not be able to insulate the floor in your flat but adding rugs or carpet where possible could help to block draughts and keep your living space warm. Additionally, a runner in an entranceway, for example, can make the space more inviting.”

Invest in thermal-lined curtains

Debbie Leigh suggests installing thermal curtains:

“Good quality, lined curtains are worth the investment. They offer temperature control and privacy. Blackout and thermal-lined window dressing help to keep the room warm in winter by stopping unwanted cold air from seeping in. As an added bonus, they also keep the home cool in summer by totally blocking out unwanted light.”

Install heat-reflective wallpaper

Oliver Creevy recommends a special type of wallpaper:

“Heat-reflective wallpaper is a special type of wallpaper equipped with a reflective layer. When applied to exterior walls, this wallpaper reflects heat back into the room. This helps to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature inside the home while also serving as a decorative element.”

The benefits of an energy-efficient home

Yolanda Jacob, Sales & Marketing Director at Barratt London, explains how Barratt London homes are designed to retain heat and reduce your energy bills:

“Our new build homes in London are built with highly-efficient insulation and enhanced double-glazing as standard. This allows the heat in and keeps the cold out. This technology means there is less need to turn on the heating, and when you do switch it on, the heat remains inside your apartment.

“In fact, a Barratt London apartment could be up to 65% more energy efficient than an updated Victorian apartment. This could equate to a saving of up to £2,200 each year on your energy bills.”

Embracing science, data and ecological expertise will help developers rise to the challenge of new biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirements, say environmental specialists at Fera Science. 

Under the Town & Country Planning Act (TCPA), from 12 February 2024, most developers in England must evidence how they will deliver at least 10% BNG, for 30 years minimum, for each new site.  

This involves assessing and calculating initial biodiversity levels, using the mitigation hierarchy to build an effective biodiversity gain strategy, and creating a bespoke habitat management and monitoring plan for the long term. 

Harnessing environmental science within every step will be key to developers’ success, says Paul Brown, senior remote sensing scientist and geomatics surveyor at Fera. 

“Developers are being confronted with the urgent need to capture highly accurate, biodiversity data which they can translate into effective net gain strategies. 

“A scientific approach is vital – so, it is essential for developers to invest in ecological expertise to help them put effective nature protection measures in place, and meet incoming BNG targets as smoothly as possible,” he says. 

With over 100 years of scientific learning, research and development, Fera is collaborating with housebuilders to understand and navigate BNG policy changes with a tailored support service. 

“Our LAND360 land assessment service connects developers with Fera’s team of ecologists, economists, GIS and remote sensing experts, to help them create and deliver a fully-informed 30-year biodiversity gain plan,” explains Mr Brown. 

“We use remote sensing technology, mapping and geographic information systems (GIS) to carry out a thorough desk-based habitat assessment, without the need for initial on-site investigation. 

“These detailed insights help us build a science-based biodiversity baseline, from which we can forecast the impact of on-site and off-site BNG strategies, to help developers put the right plans in place that continue delivering at least 10% gain,” he says. 

According to legislation, developers who fail to account for BNG in their plans will face delays or even rejection of their applications, so getting credible advice is vital for developers and planners. 

“Investing in scientific support with BNG planning will not only help developers meet industry-wide regulations smoothly, but also help demonstrate a true ‘nature first’ approach to sustainable development, backed up with genuine expertise.” 

To find out more about how Fera and the LAND360 service is helping housing developers, visit https://www.fera.co.uk/land360-housing-developers