Government to raise standards of NI buildings

New ideas as to how Northern Ireland buildings are to be designed are to be published by the government.

Northern Ireland Office Minister, Maria Eagle, has said that attractive, healthy, safe and functional buildings can greatly improve health, well-being and quality of life.

The Minister was commenting today at the launch of a new Government policy on Architecture and the Built Environment for Northern Ireland.

Ms Eagle said: “Over the next 10 years the Government is investing, at unprecedented levels, in infrastructure and the public estate. Now is our chance to raise the standard of design and performance of publicly funded buildings such as schools and hospitals, to make a real difference to the quality of built environment, and to leave a legacy which our children will cherish.”

The new policy document will set out three guiding principles on creativity and innovation, protection and enhancement of the built and natural heritage, and sustainable development.

These principles are supported by five key objectives which deal with good design, planning policies, knowledge and skills, awareness of good design and art in public places.

The Minister explained that the policy is driven by persuasive evidence that investment in visually attractive, well designed buildings can impact dramatically on social, economic and environmental standards.

She said: “In planning neighbourhoods, good design will respect peoples’ needs. Sensitivity to local character will encourage community spirit, confidence ownership, pride and self-esteem.”

She continued: “By delivering exemplary public projects Government aims to challenge and inspire the private sector and to stimulate a wider appreciation of architecturally and historically important buildings.

“It is not just about buildings, Government recognises that parks and landscaped spaces, which are attractive and safe, enhance the built environment and encourage healthy outdoor activity. We also recognise the need to protect the natural heritage from insensitive development. This unique countryside and coastline which make Northern Ireland so attractive is irreplaceable.”

The Minister said that underpinning her approach will be a commitment to ensure accessibility and sustainability.

“No one should be disadvantaged because of poor design in the built environment. All buildings, therefore, must comply with the Disability Discrimination Acts 1995 and 2005and ensure accessibility for people with disabilities."

Ms Eagle also said that a Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) led by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure was to be set up.

She said that the role of this group will be to provide her with advice on the implementation of the policy and on further policy initiatives and hopes to see the appointment of individuals who have a clear vision and are respected for their expertise and ambition to improve design in the built environment.

She concluded by saying that she hopes that this group will attract people who have a real interest in design and the environment that will become an influential body that will enjoy the confidence of the industry and public.

(EF/SP)