COP28
The 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) has concluded its first week. At the heart of negotiations has been a “Global Stocktake” where countries take an inventory of their collective progress to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C this century. This is currently at a draft text stage, with significant division and delays as countries reliant on oil and gas exports for their economy resist measures to curb fossil fuel consumption.
Activity from the UK Government so far includes:
- £1.6 billion of UK funding committed to climate projects
- 100 million pledged for vulnerable countries tackling climate change
- £85 million pledged towards global action to protect rainforests, cut methane emissions and advance low carbon technologies
Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities launches £7 million High Street Accelerators pilot for long-term regeneration
On Wednesday (6 December), the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities launched a pilot of its new scheme for high street regeneration. Ten struggling high streets will take part, being given £237,000 each for initial partnerships, with a further pool of £5 million that can be applied to improve green and social spaces.
COMING UP THIS WEEK
Monday 11 December: The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill have its Second Reading in the House of Commons.
Monday 11 December: The House of Lords will hear oral questions on the National Infrastructure Commission’s findings that there is no public policy case for hydrogen heating.
Tuesday 12 December: The Built Environment Committee will hear further oral evidence on modern methods of construction.
Wednesday 13 December: The House of Lords will hear oral questions on increasing the proportion of social housing built under the Affordable Homes Programme.
Thursday 14 December: The House of Lords will hear oral questions on improving the sustainability and quality of existing buildings, including by cutting VAT to encourage building repairs and maintenance.
CE ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Wednesday 24 January 2024 – Constructing Excellence Conference 2024: Delivering Tomorrow Today – Constructing Excellence – Book your place today!
