RSUA has responded to the UK Government’s Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s (MHCLG) call for evidence on a new strategy for built environment professions, trades and occupations.
While the strategy is intended to apply to England, the call rightly recognises that the built environment “system” does not operate within the limits of a single jurisdiction and is therefore interested in significant cross-border activities and relationships.
Supporting architect-led design teams
We emphasised that construction professions have distinct competencies and should not be treated as interchangeable.
RSUA also reaffirmed that clients should continue to have the option of appointing architects to lead projects where appropriate, noting the support provided by a 2023 High Court ruling in Northern Ireland.
Investing in education
RSUA raised concerns about the funding of architecture, building and planning courses across UK higher education, which currently receive less support than many science and engineering subjects.
We called for a review of funding arrangements to ensure they reflect the complexity and importance of built environment education.
Considering Northern Ireland
RSUA advised MHCLG to consider potential implications for Northern Ireland, particularly in relation to professional mobility and the mutual recognition of qualifications between the UK and the Republic of Ireland.
Supporting smaller practices
RSUA highlighted the challenges faced by small and micro architectural practices in meeting new regulatory requirements and investing in emerging technologies.
We therefore called for any new guidance to be proportionate and accompanied by appropriate support.
More information
Our full consultation response can be accessed here.
If you have any questions or comments about this response, please contact Curtis Large, RSUA Policy and Public Affairs Officer, at curtis@rsua.org.uk
