Longevity and sustainability found in low- to mid-rise buildings

Nigel’s studies show that over a 100-year life cycle, a terrace of town houses could cost 50% less to construct and maintain over its life compared to a flatted block providing similar useable floor area.

Nigel says: “While the creation of low- and mid-rise housing could potentially deliver both the number and the quality of homes required in sought-after locations such as London and the South East, which could prove to be the more sustainable option, we can’t ignore that there are many benefits of high-rise buildings too.

“These remain well suited to the needs of both young and old people who do not need family accommodation. These groups are growing in numbers, so the construction or refurbishment of high-rise buildings is vital in bringing existing, underused housing stock back into full use. It is important for local planning authorities to work together to secure solutions that look beyond individual local authority boundaries and maximise housing delivery.”