Scope
RPS conducted an independent verification of Countryside Properties’ ‘Environmental, Social & Ethical Report 2007’ (covering the period October 2006 – September 2007). The overall aim of the verification statement is to provide assurance to all stakeholders that the information provided is accurate and reliable. The terms of reference for RPS’s verification were to assess the appropriateness, credibility and soundness of the claims and commitments made in the report. In addition, RPS wished to judge the extent to which sustainability encompassing environmental, social and ethical measures are being embedded into Countryside’s overall business and operational activities.
Methodology
In conducting the verification, RPS verified statements and data through interviews with key individuals at Group level and document review. In addition, a sample of active sites was visited and selected issues audited. Evidence of target achievement was reviewed to ensure consistency with reported progress. A detailed debrief is also being provided to the Company highlighting areas of existing good practice and areas where improvement is advised.
Comments
Countryside Properties continues to successfully integrate sustainable development as a core value within its business performance. Ongoing systematic management of its sustainability issues is maintained with the use of management systems for quality, health and safety and the environment, all of which are externally certified for all parts of the business. Re-certification was also achieved to Investors in People.
Countryside Properties has again made progress against its core set of objectives and quantitative key performance indicators (KPIs) and is transparent in its reporting where KPIs have not been achieved. The Company’s strategy was endorsed by its ranking by Next Generation as the leading privately owned housebuilder with regard to sustainability practices and reporting.
To maintain and build on the Company’s progress, the following recommendations for future management and reporting of environmental, social and ethical issues by Countryside Properties are suggested:
- Maintain the systematic management throughout the business, through the use of the integrated quality management systems and providing appropriate training to staff at all levels.
- Further develop and monitor Company-wide quantitative KPIs linking where possible with the Code for Sustainable Homes and continue to build on the improvements already demonstrated and analyse where further improvements are needed.
- Continue the proactive engagement with key stakeholders, and membership of relevant advisory panels, to ensure that Countryside maintains its position as a leader in its sector in the management of sustainability issues.
Conclusions
RPS is confident that this report provides a comprehensive and balanced account of the way that Countryside Properties has addressed and managed its environmental, social and ethical issues during 2006-07. The data presented is based on a systematic and robust collection process and we are satisfied that it accurately reflects the current environmental, social and ethical performance of Countryside Properties
Tanya Lloyd Jones
Technical Director
RPS Health, Safety & Environment Ltd, London
19 March 2008