News archive for April, 2026
Part L Requires Renewable Energy Generation
Posted on April 30th 2026
Part L 2026 introduces a new functional requirement for providing practicable renewable energy generation (kWh). The functional requirement is based on the production of 71 kWh/year of renewable generation per square metre of ground floor area (differs for flats). Though any renewable technology can be used, this value has been based on installing unshaded photovoltaic (PV) panels at a 45° pitch, …
Gateway Approval for Bow Phase 2
Posted on April 29th 2026
Hodkinson Consultancy is pleased to have supported the successful Gateway 2 approval of Bow Common Phase 2. Achieving Gateway 2 consent represents a key milestone in progressing the project through the Building Safety Regulator process. Located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, the development comprises a series of new apartment blocks, incorporating ground floor commercial space. It is the …
Column Placement Improves Thermal Performance & GIA
Posted on April 29th 2026
Thermal performance is often framed around insulation and wall build-ups. But one of the most effective moves happens much earlier – deciding where structural columns are placed. When columns cut through the external wall line, they interrupt insulation and create thermal bridges. That leads to higher heat loss and pushes designers towards thicker, more complex walls to compensate. By keeping …