Experts support Built to Last

Many experts in housing and the environment have pledged their support for Built To Last. Here’s a selection of their views.

The pressure group - Matt Bell (pictured), Director of Campaigns at the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment says: ‘CABE's recent survey revealed that just under half of homeowners feel there aren't enough play areas, and 40 per cent thought there was not enough open space. Almost half missed a sense of community. These must be part and parcel of each new home we create.'

The academic - Anne Power, Professor of Social Policy and Head of the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Housing says: ‘I totally endorse your suggestion that VAT on refurbishments should be cut to five per cent, and new housing should pay tax at that level to even out tax incentives. A guarantee of play space accessible to all new developments is also a very good idea.'

The environmentalist - Kate Gordon, Senior Planning Officer at the Campaign to Protect Rural England says: ‘We need to end the scandal of 17.5 per cent VAT on repairs and maintenance of buildings. The Government urgently needs to address this.'

To read more about the House Beautiful Built to Last campaign, click here...

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