Ms Sarah Neary:

There are two projects on standard specifications on which we are working. One is for standard internal layouts, meaning one does not have to start from scratch for every project. The standard internal layouts would be for two, three and four-bedroom houses, apartments and duplexes. That work should be published early next year. In addition, we are looking at standard specifications. While the layouts are one element, we are looking at standardising the specification of the materials and the works involved which local authorities can use. We are working with several local authorities on this.

All social housing must comply with the building regulations. We have some good examples where nearly zero energy building, NZEB, standards have been piloted. Sustainable communities is another area where social housing projects embrace the climate action pieces such as compact growth and ensuring the location of social housing projects is within walking distance of amenities, etc. Those are the types of decisions we are trying to influence.

The Deputy referred to a number of sub-stages within the four stages. I think that might be the guidelines which we produced last year with local authorities. That was in the interests of clarity and improving the quality of submissions. It is to simplify the process in terms of the box-ticking exercise, namely, to ensure that one has all the required information in order the approval process can happen quickly within the three or four weeks allowed.