The Building Research Establishment is to act as host for a new broad-based initiative aimed at developing a better understanding of whole-life (or, alternatively, life-cycle) costing for buildings and promoting its advantages.

Targeted at owners, occupiers, facilities managers, contractors and consultants, the forum has already set itself an initial programme. The BRE will act as coordinator, contributor of expert information and publisher of the results.

Activities in the first year include a pilot exercise to benchmark current information and practices, development of a database covering members and their interests, and contribution to emerging whole-life standards.

Membership cost has been set at £3000pa, with an assumed commitment of at least three years.

More information is available from Lisa Morris by e-mailing morrisl@bre.co.uk

Elliott Chase