Architects are welcoming the chance to shape the future of architecture by submitting their views to the UK Government via an online survey.

An open invitation has been issued to those working in the architectural, building and environmental professions. It asks them to put forward their views on regulation, improving diversity, sustainability, innovation and the overriding role of the Architects Registration Board UK. Submissions opened on August 16th 2021 and the closing date is 8.45pm on November 8th 2021.

The Government consultation describes itself as ‘a call for evidence (to) consider the current regulation for architects and the architectural sector in the UK’ telling us that:

“The review will complement existing work and will invite responses on wider aspects, including:

• How the profession can become more diverse and accessible
• Whether the current regulatory regime is fit for purpose
• The role of the regulation of architects in ensuring a more sustainable built environment
• How the government can promote innovation in the sector.”

You can submit your views via the online form

Making the profession more diverse and accessible

While this consultation is being posited as part of a wholesale review aimed at ‘upholding the UK’s global architectural reputation’, it will also look at how regulations can be modernised, diversity values improved and whether the current regime is fit for purpose.

Questions relating to architectural regulations and how they can improve sustainability and ideas for government innovation within the sector are also included.

Looking to the future

Christopher Pincher, the UK Government’s Housing Minister, commented: “Our architectural sector is one of the best in the world – with first-class educational institutions, world-leading practices, and a healthy export market,”

He continued:

“The review we are launching today builds on this outstanding legacy, looking to the future and exploring the changes we need for an innovative, accessible and broad profession that delivers better, greener and safer design and construction.”

In addition to the review, the UK Government will also be holding thematic workshops and interviewing sector representatives.

Industry backing

The Architects Registration Board UK Chair, Alan Kershaw, added: “The government’s review asks important questions about policy and regulation, and we look forward to playing a full part in shaping and supporting an architectural profession that is fit for the future.”

As well as the Architects Registration Board UK, the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) tweeted their support for the initiative, stating: “RIAS encourage members to engage with this opportunity to shape the future of the profession and contribute to a wholesale review that will consider modernising regulation, improving diversity and upholding the UK’s global reputation in architecture.”

Take part

If you are an architect or are involved in architecture in a professional capacity, this is an ideal chance for you to share your views with the UK Government. To take part, simply visit the Government website and fill in the online form.

Initial findings are expected to be presented to Christopher Pincher in the Spring 2022, with an outcome expected by the Summer 2022.

Continue the conversation

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