THE EVOLUTION OF THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF MASONRY BUILDINGS IN THE UK

st ra ct The paper gives a brief history of the use of masonry, mainly clay brickwork and stonework, for historic buildings in the UK. The development of a modern Code of Practice is described, leading to BS 5628: Parts 1, 2 and 3 (BRITISH..., 1978, 1985a, b). The development and use of reinforced masonry is covered, as is the need for sensible rules to ensure that correct materials and workmanship are used. The development of new materials and methods is mentioned. The result of the European Union succeeding in changing National European Codes of Practice into Eurocodes has made a profound difference for designers and the Eurocodes are described. Finally the future use of masonry in the UK is discussed