19 Door Industry Journal Spring 2026 Building the Future Why Security is the Blueprint for Britain’s Housing Boom The government’s ambitious Getting Britain Building Again initiative is a watershed moment for the UK economy. With plans to reform planning regulations and deliver 1.5 million homes over the next parliament, the construction sector is poised for an unprecedented surge. For manufacturers of doors, windows, and locks, this represents a massive window of opportunity - but it also carries a profound responsibility. AS WE scale up production, we must resist the temptation to prioritise quantity over quality. Sub-standard fixtures do more than just frustrate homeowners; they place a preventable burden on the environment, local authorities, and the criminal justice system. While Part Q of the Building Regulations provides a mandatory security baseline, it is exactly that: a minimum. To truly future-proof these 1.5 million homes, developers and manufacturers are increasingly turning to Secured by Design (SBD). Known as the “Police Preferred Specification”, SBD standards far exceed basic building regulations. For over 25 years, this standard has identified products robust enough to resist physical attack by opportunistic burglars. It remains the only way for security products to achieve official UK police recognition. The secret to a truly secure development lies in the Designing Out Crime philosophy. By embedding crime prevention techniques into the very fabric of a building - from the initial blueprint to the final brick - developers can earn the prestigious SBD Development Award. This process is supported by specialist police Designing Out Crime Officers (DOCOs), who provide free, expert guidance to ensure every aspect of a site contributes to a safe environment. The result? Award-winning spaces where residents, business users, and visitors feel genuinely secure. For manufacturers, SBD membership is more than a badge of honour; it is a powerful driver of ROI. • Rigorous testing: Every SBD-listed product undergoes independent testing by UKAS-accredited bodies • Sustainability: High-quality, secure products last longer and are less likely to need replacement due to criminal damage • Market visibility: The police service actively directs high-volume buyers - including architects and large-scale developers - to SBD members In an industry where trust is the primary currency, the Police Preferred Specification instantly elevates a brand above the competition. It provides clear evidence of quality that resonates with consumers and satisfies mandatory security requirements across England, Scotland, and Wales. Every family deserves a home that is both decent and secure. As we embark on this national building mission, we invite manufacturers and developers to join the industry leaders who have already discovered the benefits of SBD. By prioritising security today, we build the resilient, cohesive, and vibrant communities of tomorrow. www.securedbydesign.com Jon Cole Jon Cole, Chief Operating Officer Secured by Design SECURED BY DESIGN Also online at www.dijonline.co.uk
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