【Savills】Planning for reductions in new-build emissions

The planning system has the potential to play a crucial role in the effort to decarbonise the built environment. It is the mechanism through which the spatial and transport aspects of decarbonisation can be addressed, and regulates the standards new developments must be delivered to. Local plans are now legally required to contain policies that are aligned with the commitments of the Climate Change Act 2008 to reduce emissions and achieve net zero by 2050.

Since 2018, around 75% of local authorities have declared a climate emergency and many have proposed earlier target dates than 2050 to reach net zero. Nottingham has one of the most ambitious carbon reduction targets, aiming for the city to be carbon neutral by 2028, requiring a 22.8% reduction in emissions every year from current levels. However, these ambitions are yet to filter through to specific requirements in the local plan.

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