March 2007 - News from the UK

Update: Timber Frame, Construction & Property News

• IKEA to sell 'off-the-shelf' flat-pack houses

Well known for its trademark modern-style furniture, Scandinavian retailer IKEA is branching out by selling houses.

In a UK first the home furnishings giant will be selling flat-pack housing from its store in Gateshead.

>> Read full story

• Assembly objects to increased housing allocation for the East of England

The East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) is objecting to Government proposals for at least 30,000 additional new homes in the East of England in the period 2001-2021, in its detailed response to the public consultation on the Government's proposed changes to the draft East of England Plan, submitted on Friday 9th March 2007.

>> Read full story

News: Environment, Climate & Attitudes

• Climate-proof development must become the norm

Climate-proofing England's built environment requires more new buildings to follow the example of model developments like London's Gallions Park, according to a report published this week.

>> Read full story

• Most investors concerned about the climate

Two thirds of investors quizzed on the factors which would influence their decisions on how to place their cash said climate change would be a consideration.

>> Read full story

News: Society, Community & Responsible Business

• Snack-maker aims for green consumers with carbon labels

Packets of Walkers crisps will appear on the shelves today carrying the world's first "carbon labels", enabling customers to gauge the effect of their buying habits on the climate.

>> Read full story

News: Finance & Economy

• Financial services 'worst' for unfair treatment

Four-fifths of women employed in financial services have experienced unfair treatment such as discrimination, sexual harassment or bullying in the work place in the last two years, according to official figures released yesterday.

>> Read full story

• New green fund plugs gap

The private sector's failure to back the next generation of environmentally-friendly technologies has prompted the government agency responsible for encouraging innovative ideas to launch a £50m venture capital fund.

>> Read full story