Event calls for feedback on unique ‘Taunton Protocol'

A blueprint for sustainable development

A ground breaking protocol for sustainable regeneration is to be discussed in Taunton on Friday 9 November. The draft Taunton Protocol, which outlines Taunton's unique stance on sustainable development, and is set to become an exemplary model for the country as a whole, will be presented to delegates at ‘Building Future Perfect'. The event is being hosted by the Mayor of Taunton Deane, Ken Hayward, at the Genesis Centre in Taunton.

Project Taunton has designed the Taunton Protocol as a tool to guide and support those responsible for development in and around Taunton and it is the first of its kind in the UK. It will promote a coordinated approach and requires developers, builders and professionals involved in the design and construction of new developments, to commit to 10 principles related to the following elements:

• Low carbon development

• Environmental responsibility

• Employment and training

• Design

• Wellbeing

As well as presenting the draft Taunton Protocol, the day-long Building Future Perfect event will also feature presentations from key industry figures regarding the commercial impact of sustainable design, case studies of successful sustainable developments, and a chance to feedback on the proposed protocol in a ‘Question Time' session with expert panellists. In the afternoon Regen South West will be hosting a seminar entitled ‘Renewable Energy in Residential and Commercial Development', which will focus on the 'low carbon development' element of the protocol and look at how it can be applied to deliver higher energy standards in new development.

Project Taunton aims to establish the Taunton Protocol as a byword for excellence; recognised both regionally and nationally as a leading example of coordinated best practice. Developers signing up to the protocol will place themselves several steps ahead of current legislation, putting them in a strong position for future regeneration projects.

Speaking from Project Taunton's offices near the town centre, Ian Franklin, Project Director said: "This is a critical event for the future of Taunton. The Taunton Protocol is a pioneering document which demonstrates the team's commitment to truly sustainable development. Our role is to support those responsible for delivering the physical regeneration of Taunton, to ensure the highest standards in environmentally sensitive development - the Taunton Protocol is key to this process. In order to create a constructive, workable protocol we believe that it is essential to consult those within the industry, which why we are presenting a draft at the event and calling on people to feedback to us."

To receive a copy of the draft protocol and its supporting document, or to attend the Building Future Perfect event, contact Robbie Lowes at Project Taunton on 01823 250 809. For more information on Project Taunton go to www.projecttaunton.co.uk.

ENDS