Despite current construction market conditions the dynamic industry environment must come to terms with further changes over the coming months.

As of the 1 July 2008 the new Part L of the building regulations comes in to force for all new planning applications.

These regulations aim to reduce the impact of the built environment on our natural environment thus bringing new challenges to contractors and developers.

A key implication of the New Part L (under the transitional arrangements) is the fact that buildings that have been awarded planning on or before the 30 June 2008 and substantial work has been completed by the 1 July 2009 will also be subject to regulations by default. This poses a key question for developers and contractors alike, "how are we to meet the requirements of Part L for these semi-completed buildings?"

The solution is simple: seek an industry leading, high performance, economical system to facilitate in meeting the requirements of Part L.

'Fusion Therma Shield 162' is a core component of the Fusion light gauge steel frame building system.

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The 'Fusion Therma Shield 162' insulated external wall panel system was modified in August 2007 in anticipation of the requirements of Part L. The key technical and performance aspects of this innovative, 162mm thick, factory insulated wall panel combine to deliver premium results under Part L.

Fusion's independently accredited Thermal Bridging details comply with Part L regulations and with optional bespoke design it is possible to achieve significantly lower Psi values.

The elemental wall U-value of 'Fusion Therma Shield 162' is 0.21W/m2K with a traditional masonry outer leaf, thus exceeding Part L requirements. Wall U-values as low as 0.12 W/m2K with the addition of complementary insulation products.

'Fusion Therma Shield 162' requires no counter battens are to make services airtight within the external walls due to the unique properties of the panel. This results in significant cost savings on labour, material and internal floor space when compared to other construction methods.

'Fusion Therma Shield 162' provides the perfect platform for external walls to achieve an A-rated standard with no extra expenditure. 'Fusion Therma Shield 162' insulated external wall panels mean superior thermal performance and increased energy efficiency of structures. This results in reduced operational heating costs, a shorter heat up period and the potential to downsize boilers and radiators. Fusion structures are robust and highly energy efficient.

Overall, a Fusion structure will assist in decreasing energy bills and CO2 emissions, thus reducing the occupier's personal carbon footprint. The excellent energy performance ratings that are facilitated by 'Fusion Therma Shield 162' ensure that all Fusion buildings also have excellent resale potential. The panelised nature of the Fusion light gauge steel frame system also makes structures suitable for modification as the needs of occupiers change.