Election 2010 – RIBA holds Regional Hustings Events

The Royal Institute of British Architects has announced details of regional hustings events in London, Plymouth, Solihull and Bristol, being held in the run-up to the 2010 general election. These events are an opportunity for RIBA members and opinion formers to engage with candidates, and raise issues relevant to architecture and the built environment such as housing, planning, or sustainability. 

RIBA President Ruth Reed said:

“The 2010 general election is a significant opportunity for the RIBA and its members to highlight the key areas of national policy to policy makers and incoming parliamentarians. Creating a better built environment through architecture is central to the vision of the RIBA; in organising and attending these hustings events, members have the opportunity to debate local and national issues relating to the future of the built environment and the issues that underpin it, including housing, planning, climate change and government procurement. RIBA members are excellently positioned to introduce local candidates to the core issues affecting the industry, and make their voices heard. All Prospective Parliamentary Candidates across the UK will receive a manifesto from the relevant RIBA region - we hope candidates will sign up to it.”
 
RIBA’s manifesto ‘Buildings Matter’, which was launched at the Party Political Conferences in September 2009, sets out the Institute’s core vision for good design, and how an improved planning system is vital to the health and sustainability of our communities. The manifesto calls for:
 
• Greening our buildings
4 million homes to be retrofitted within the lifetime of the next Parliament.
The introduction of smart energy meters in every building and the publication of carbon bills by energy companies.

• Better schools, hospitals and homes
Minimum design standards should be introduced for all public buildings including post-occupancy evaluation.
The same minimum space, design and environmental standards should apply to all new homes, whether they are privately or publicly funded.

• A stronger planning system
More support was requested for Local Authorities to encourage good design including design review panels, better design advice and sharing planning services.

Bristol (9 April) and Plymouth (16 April) hustings events – click here for further details and booking instructions.