Despite 30 years’ experience in building control, I no longer feel confident on site that what I am looking at achieves the requirements of the regulations; also, when asked for advice I don’t always have the answer straight away because the regulations have become too complicated.

Having been to talks by the ODPM, it’s clear to see why: the regulations are being written by academics with no practical experience. I think they should spend 12 months on site to see how their meddling impinges on the industry.

Postscript

Gareth Hughes, principal building control officer, North Shropshire council

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