Making Decisions on the Demolition or Refurbishment of Social Housing

This policy briefing summarises the main factors involved when deciding whether to refurbish or demolish social housing, including environmental and economic costs and benefits. Such decisions will involve trade-offs between different objectives and values. The briefing discusses: • evaluating the economic case for refurbishment, including impacts on communities and residents; • the energy and carbon implications of demolition compared to refurbishment; • issues around water and waste; and • social factors in housing and regeneration, including health and community participation