Sustainability is now a guiding philosophy at the heart of every stage of the design process. Leslie Jones recognises our social responsibility to play our part in delivering sustainable communities for the long term.

Key documents 'Securing the Future - The UK Government's Sustainable Development Strategy' and National Assembly for Wales 'Sustainable Development Action Plan' set out an over-arching policy for National and Local Government with the stated aims of enabling people to satisfy their needs and to enjoy a better quality of life without compromising the quality of life and needs of future generations.

Key issues addressed as the design progresses will be; energy conservation, minimisation of the need to travel and for car usage, re-use of previously developed land, conservation and enhancement of the natural and built environment, improving the environment, facilities or services for the wider community and the efficient use of resources, water and minerals.

These issues are assessed in detail by the voluntary application of BREEAM and EcoHomes Assessments at each stage of the detail design process.

'Sustainable Construction' is addressed through a Code of Construction Practice to mitigate the effects of construction on the environment, addressing site and traffic management, air quality, noise and vibration, waste management, drainage and the protection of the built environment.