Over 100 delegates heard about the future challenges they are facing with changes to Building Regulations and Planning Reform including the impact of Planning moving from Central to local Councils.
“Embracing Change” was the theme for the Building Control conference which took place last week in Newry and was organised by the Southern Group Building Control Committee.
Minister Alex Atwood MLA updated the audience on progress to date with the review of public administration and how it and the proposed transfer of planning will impact upon Councils.
The agenda also included changes to Building Regulations with Mr Seamus McCrystal, the Head of Building Standards in N.Ireland, addressing key concerns in respect of sound insulation of dwellings and energy efficiency of buildings.
The Chief Executive of Craigavon Borough Council, Dr. Theresa Donaldson and Mr Stanley Bentley, Group Commander of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service signed an important Memorandum of Understanding between the two organisations. The formal agreement means both organisations can share important information and ensure full compliance with Fire Safety Legislation.
The Conference takes place annually and provides an opportunity for Councillors to become updated on the developments in the Building Regulations for which they ultimately have control in the enforcement of those Regulations in their Districts.
