EC standards delay

The construction products industry is mired in confusion after the European Commission granted Germany an extension to meet the deadline for harmonised product standards for thermal insulation.

Just days before the 1 March launch date of harmonised standards, Germany requested an extension. The EC turned the request down but decided the confusion caused was enough to extend the current transition period until 13 May.

CJ understands the Netherlands has now asked for an extension for harmonisation of clay paver standards.

Construction Products Association industry affairs director John Tebbit has written to Dr Helen Sutcliffe of the EC's construction unit to complain. "Members from a variety of sectors see this as a betrayal of their investment of time and money in getting European standards into force," he said.

"Unless the Commission upholds the rules, supports those member states and industries that are working within the rules to get a single market, there will be many who will see no alternative but to walk away from the construction products directive and go back to national markets."

The EC's Standing Committee on Construction is due to meet on 13 May. Germany's failure to meet the 1 March deadline and the EC's extension decision will be discussed then.