HOUSING is set to benefit from a new agreement that will make sure high qualities are achieved in the sector thanks to a new partnership deal between Signpost Homes of Dorset and the Borough of Poole's Building Control Team.

The new partnership agreement has recently been signed by both organisations to help make the building control process for new housing schemes more efficient.

Mike Kinsella from Signpost Homes says, "Signpost Homes will be building around 2000 student units and 250 new homes over the next 5 years across the South West. Before this agreement we would have to seek building regulations from each local authority whereas now we have one port of call. The Borough of Poole will check that everything is in place before we start work on site, in fact they will be involved right at the start of the design process to advise us on regulatory compliance they will then process the necessary paperwork with the relevant authority."

This agreement means that delays can be avoided and the process for seeking formal building regulation approval can be speeded up.

Andrew Holmes from the Borough of Poole Building Consultancy Services says, "Through partnership working agreements we can ensure that prompt and constructive advice is given at the start of the development process - for any scheme throughout England and Wales. We will assist in co-coordinating consultation with allied services including the Fire Authority and, in providing early advice, can recommend changes to the design if necessary, which can be cost effective for you, whilst also ensuring the scheme is compliant."

Local Authority Building Control (LABC), of which the Borough of Poole is a member, have a network of around 4,000 professionals across the UK who can provide a combination of hands on experience, local knowledge and technical expertise.

Signpost Homes is part of Dorset based Signpost Housing Group and specialises in providing housing for rent - on the open market, to students and keyworkers.

Ends: With photograph (available on request) - Mike Kinsella of Signpost Homes seals the Local Authority Building Control Partnership Agreement with Andrew Holmes of the Borough of Poole.

For further information please contact: Mike Kinsella on 01202 853147 or Andrew Holmes on 01202 633238.