4 C O N T E X T 1 7 2 : J U N E 2 0 2 2 Security Strategy. The Spring Statement cut VAT to zero on solar, insulation and heat pumps, but not on repairs, which are the essential precursor to retrofit. The Energy Security Strategy focuses on energy supply, with nuclear featuring strongly and controversially. More immediately for Context readers, it mentions ‘Reviewing the practical planning barriers that households can face when installing energy efficiency measures such as improved glazing, including in conservation areas and listed buildings. This will be completed by the end of 2022 and ensure protection of local amenity and heritage, while making it easier to improve energy efficiency’. The strategy claims that ‘On aesthetics, upgrades can retain and enhance a building’s character with measures being easy to install and beautiful in design’ (whatever that means). To facilitate solar power, the strategy will ‘bring down bills and increase jobs by radically simplifying planning processes with a consultation on relevant permitted development rights and will consider the best way to make use of public sector rooftops’. Heat pumps and heat networks are promoted, with no recognition that heat pumps may not be suitable for all properties. Government and industry are essentially promoting products, not a holistic low-carbon approach – see the STBA’s (Sustainable Traditional Buildings Alliance) From Retrofit to Regeneration. Informed owners will be vital, but as the National Trust (an informed owner if ever there was one) has found, what can they do if the enforcement officers applying the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards do not listen to advice East Farleigh bridge across the River Medway in Kent, dating from the early 14th century (Photo: Stacey Harris, Wikimedia) Retaining and enhancing character is difficult with solar panels disrupting an existing roof. This is about as good as it can get: the White House, Cambridge, 19th century, slate roof, no dormers, no irregularities, orientation excellent, almost the whole roof covered. (Photo: John Preston) from conservation officers? The Energy Security Strategy claims that ‘Research suggests the government is the trusted source of advice so we will work with trusted voices to scale up our information offer to help households understand energy saving measures. By summer we will launch a comprehensive Energy Advice Service on gov.uk, which will help consumers navigate what can be unknown territory to improve the energy performance of their homes’. Will this include anything relating to traditional buildings, or make the existing very costly guidance and standards (PAS 2035, BS 7913, etc) freely available? John Preston is heritage chair of the STBA. Historic stone bridges Tom Robinson has carried out a project to investigate historic stone bridges of the British Isles, a significant part of whose structure was built before 1700. It updates a survey carried out by Edwin Jervoise almost 100 years ago. The aims, methodology and findings, including photographs of each bridge, are at https:// historicbridgesofbritain.com.
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