This past month has been one of significant change for the UK as the Labour Government took power and began introducing new policies under its leadership.

Through planning reforms aimed at achieving housebuilding targets and delivering more infrastructure projects, the new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has pledged to "get Britain building". To this end, the Planning and Infrastructure Bill promises additional resources to hire 300 new planning officers, intended to expedite approvals for new homes.

While it is still early days for our new leaders, we are already learning of numerous changes on the horizon, many of which impact the architecture and construction sectors. This month, we have compiled a selection of industry reactions and comments on Labour's new role and the bills announced in the King's Speech. Turn to page 38 of this month's issue to read some of these reactions.

Elsewhere in this edition, our focus is on retrofitting and working with historic buildings. Firstly, IQ Glass explores the unique set of challenges and considerations architects face when integrating modern architectural glazing into Grade II-Listed buildings. You can read the full article on page 22. Meanwhile, on page 36, Mohannad Altabbal, Customer Success Manager at Graphisoft, outlines how BIM and point cloud technology can streamline the process of retrofitting our historic properties to improve sustainability while respecting their heritage.

ON THE COVER:
RSHP's design proposals for the Bromley-by-Bow Gasworks have received backing from Newham's Strategic Development Committee, paving the way for a transformative regeneration project.

Rebecca Kemp
Editor

rebecca@redhutmedia.com