Minister for Planning, Derek Mackay, has said new builds in Scotland will become more energy efficient when changes to building standards come into effect.

From October 2015, improvements to new homes will see carbon dioxide emissions fall by around 21% when compare to current levels. The new, tougher measures will also affect new non-domestic buildings such as shops and offices where the improvements will be greater, with an average reduction in emissions of around 43%.

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The Scottish Government consulted on proposed changes at the beginning of the year and considered advice from the reconvened Sullivan Report expert panel.

Minister Mackay said: "These new measures will help Scotland become greener, a vital step in our drive to a low carbon economy.

"Over the last year I have met with many representatives from the house building and construction industry. Today's announcement is made well in advance of improvements coming into effect, to give plenty of time to prepare for the changes.

"I'm now giving industry the certainty they asked for and importantly, an extra transitional two years preparatory period, a total of five years without change.

"This also provides a valuable period in which industry and government can work together to successfully deliver the improved standards."

(JP/CD)