Sustainability Policy
Lomond Homes recognise the importance of integrating the three elements of the “triple bottom line” (economic, environmental and social) in order to achieve a sustainable approach to the business of construction. And that this approach will assist in meeting the Scottish Government’s objective of:
“Sustainability – the measure of the likely impact of development on the social, economic and environmental conditions of people in the future and in other places.”
Lomond Homes have developed and adopted the following policy to ensure that a sustainable approach is taken in all that is done:
Social Aspects
Community Interaction
Prior to and during any project Lomond Homes seeks to involve itself with the local community. The company monitors, evaluates and reviews its processes, learning from the past failures of consultation, looking to involve residents in all aspects of development; and keep people fully informed of operations, which will impact their day-to- day lives and the environment in which they stay.
During operations positive consideration will be given to the needs of the traders and businesses, site personnel and visitors, pedestrian and the general public. Special attention is given to the needs of those with sight, hearing and mobility difficulties.
Local Labour
Lomond Homes supports the use of local labour wherever possible, and the training of people for the construction industry maintaining a close link to local colleges. The company will seek to address the skills shortages within the industry and most importantly, give people assistance in finding meaningful employment whenever it can.
In the context of local and national procurement led developments Lomond Homes are mindful of the need to maximise the opportunities that public contracts initiatives provides through Community Benefit Clauses over and above the company’s corporate social responsibilities. All for the good of the communities in which the company works.
Community Projects
Lomond Homes has been and continues to be involved with community projects wherever possible through contact with the communities in which it works contributing time, money and/or resources to local projects, events and initiatives. This remains a commitment of Lomond Homes.
Protection of the Environment
The Lomond Homes Environmental Policy forms the foundation for this particular section of the sustainability policy.
During Construction
Lomond Homes is committed to protecting the environment during construction works. The company is guided by its own policy commitments and the Considerate Constructors Scheme.
As a highly regarded SME it seeks to protect sensitive properties from noise which arise from construction operations and all other sources associated with operations, at all times.
Protection and enhancement of water quality and water as a resource remains an integral part of the company’s approach to environmental protection in accordance with legislative provisions driven by SEPA.
To achieve environmental protection in a comprehensive manner surplus material should not be allowed to accumulate on the site or spill over onto the surrounding environment; and dust from construction operations shall be kept to a minimum so as to minimise pollution and maximise air quality.
Waste management, the avoidance of pollution arising from waste, the recycling of surplus materials is essential to the LEAN approach of Lomond Homes. This is done in recognition of the Scottish Government’s targets relating to “Zero Waste” and provisions of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency.
Lomond Homes approach to the preservation of ecological resources is based on the principles of habitat protection and habitat creation. As a responsible family run business the company seeks to protect flora and fauna, create habitats and replace/improve landscape quality, where loss is unavoidable, all in accordance with legislative provisions.
Design Awareness
An integral part of Lomond Homes approach is through quality of design and layout in any project. The company actively investigates sustainable design opportunities embracing Urban Design, the use of “Designing Streets” and Designing Out Crime principles.
Lomond Homes will continue to develop projects which are:
• Welcoming;
• Pleasant;
• Safe;
• Well connected; and
• Have identity.
The company is also committed to put into practice the principles of energy efficiency as part of its sustainable construction philosophy.
Lomond Homes will continue to construct, and plan schemes that incorporate the following areas of environmentally sound construction and design principles:
• Sustainable/managed forest timber supply;
• The construction of highly insulated buildings using CFC free insulation;
• Air tightness;
• Integration of appropriate renewable technologies;
• Healthy environments;
• The creation of sustainable communities;
• Integration of social housing; and
• A mix of tenure.
Use of Natural Resources and Working Methods
On a continual basis Lomond Homes endeavour to minimise the environmental damage of work through a selection of methods that assess the use of natural resources and their potential environmental impact. Lomond Homes endeavour to use environmentally friendly building techniques and finishing materials.
The company’s approach to Transportation has changed. Lomond Homes Sustainable Transport Policy is being developed to introduce positive change.
Economic Considerations Growth and Employment
Lomond Homes is committed to the principles of Best Value. Within the company’s diverse and sustainable business model there is an inherent recognition of the benefits which contribute to the growth of the economy and increase opportunities and benefits within the company and the construction industry. The economic benefits include:
• Creating quality housing stock based on affordability;
• Creating diversity of housing tenure;
• Creating business opportunity in partnership with others;
• Cost savings based on cost certainty, reduced defects and nil retentions;
• Creating employment;
• Creating apprenticeships;
• Generating repeat business;
• Developing joint venture, frameworks and strategic agreements; and
• Focusing on growth potential, predictable workloads and profit levels.
Lomond Homes recognises the importance of, and is committed to, inward investment and the promotion of the construction industry as a place to do business either at trade or professional level.
As part of the company’s short, medium and long term business model Lomond Homes take a pivotal role in providing employment opportunities.
Sustainability: A Recognition of Responsibility
This policy addresses business, design and construction referring to adding value. In addition to the value that Lomond Homes are adding, it is recognised that there is also a need to address the value of what is being taken away. It is recognised that sustainability becomes much more tangible and relevant when reference is made to quality-of-life or well-being.
The quality of the products and the environment which Lomond Homes create has become an important part of the company’s work ethic. By examining the everyday activities and issues, considering elements such as affordability, transportation, waste disposal, energy efficiency how people spend time with family, recreation and leisure and health issues as well as how to achieve a sense of community this takes added value to a different level as part of an integral approach embracing the “triple bottom line”.
As part of this approach Lomond Homes looks at values not only for the business but for the customers, the community and the environment. What excites people, what are the connections to the cultural roots of an area, what are the positive and negative impacts of what is proposed, and what opportunities exist to make things better is important and embraced by the family run business?
Lomond Homes recognise that the quality of life is an integral part of a sustainable approach. This underpins all that Lomond Homes try to achieve as part of sustainable development.
Click here to download a copy of the Sustainability Policy.
