Building Alliance are delighted to confirm that they have secured funding from Birmingham City University to support a 3 year PhD student to provide full time support for the indoor air quality and overheating project. The PhD will be supervised by Dr Monica Mateo Garcia supported by Professor David Boyd and Mike Leonard. Silvio Junges, of AES Sustainability Consultants, will continue to Chair the steering group for this important work.

This program of research and real time trials is vital as we seek to demonstrate the value of thermal mass combined with efficient heating and effective ventilation. There is growing evidence of poor indoor air quality leading to respiratory illness putting an increased burden on the NHS and overheating which is resulting in premature deaths. The promotion of lightweight structures, increased use of insulation and an ageing population will only add to this issue.

The Government has recognised this and have confirmed that they will consult on changes to the guidance on Part F (Ventilation) at the same time as they consult on Part L. We are planning a further event with MHCLG on this subject. The Government has written to Building Alliance to commit their full support for this initiative.

Building Alliance will now begin the process of recruiting the right person who will commence in September 2019.