This month...

Safe as houses...

• Solar power — Rules allowing the installation of microgeneration equipment without planning permission came into effect this month, removing the barriers to installing solar panels and ground source heat pumps.
www.communities.gov.uk

• Scottish Borders – The housing market is stronger than ever, according to planners, who say that housing pressure points such as Galashiels will need constant review to keep up with population and household growth.
www.scotborders.gov.uk

• Dulux, Pilkington and British Gypsum – Rated 41st, 83rd and 325th in the 2008 Business Superbrands listing, compiled following a survey of 1,500 business professionals.
www.superbrands.uk.com

On the slide...

• Owen Luder architecture – A distinctive 1960s residential block in Gateshead — known as the “Dunston Rocket” — is under threat from the council, dubbing it a health hazard.

• Future of the planet – A report from conservation group WWF-UK says the government is not setting its sights high enough on emission reduction targets.
www.wwf.org.uk