GBRC

I’m feeling quite positive about the coalition and what it could mean for greener homes in the UK.  During the fraught talks on those crucial days post-election as the new coalition was formed, the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats had plenty of big issues that they disagreed on, not least of all nuclear power.  Despite this, there does seem to be an element of consensus on environmental issues between the parties and they have agreed on policies around a smart grid, renewable energy, electric cars, dropping the third runway at Heathrow and a Green Investment Bank.

It’s been a busy few days for the Grand Designs Great British Refurb Campaign.  We’ve been rushed off our feet.  First, there was the Manchester House refurbishment followed by Kevin McCloud appearing at the Tory Conference to tell them how important a programme of eco-refurbishment is for the UK’s existing house stock.  This was accompanied by the Great British Refurb Campaign’s very own Simon McWhirter appearing on the big screen as part of the Manchester House video

Then it was down to Birmingham and Grand Designs Live. On Friday afternoon Kevin appeared on stage with Colin Butfield from WWF and Marian Spain from the Energy Saving Trust as part of the Big Debate.  Both they and the audience were able to quiz Greg Clark MP, Conservative spokesperson for Energy and Climate Change (we quizzed Ed Miliband in London earlier this year). It was a lively debate with huge interest from the audience. A well informed bunch who were not going to let Greg Clark off the hook easily as they questioned him on exactly what the Tory policy was and where, in their opinion, its weaknesses lie.

Sometimes campaigning gets a bit tedious. You can spend loads of time talking amongst yourselves - like minded greenies going round in virtuous circles agreeing with each other, but not making any real impression on those whose minds you've really got to change.

Well the campaign has kicked off a bit of controversy this week - which makes a refreshing change if you ask me. What's the fuss about? Kevin McCloud's appearance at the Conservative party conference in Manchester, that's what.