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House foundation with water nearby, builder overseeing construction.

Builders Back Plan to Future-Proof Homes Against Rising Flood Risks

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The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has thrown its support behind the new Flood Ready Review, an independent action plan aimed at making property flood resilience a standard feature in new builds and renovations. With climate change exacerbating flood risks, the plan outlines crucial steps to protect millions of homes across the UK.

Key Takeaways

  • The Flood Ready Review proposes practical measures to integrate property flood resilience (PFR) into mainstream homebuilding and renovation.
  • It emphasizes the vital role of small and medium-sized builders in implementing PFR solutions.
  • The FMB advocates for enhanced skills, clear standards, and accessible products to support builders.
  • Collaboration between government, insurers, lenders, and the construction industry is deemed essential.

Addressing the Growing Flood Threat

Climate change is significantly increasing the risk of flooding, with projections indicating that by 2050, one in four homes could be affected. The Flood Ready Review, commissioned by the Environment Agency and led by Professor Peter Bonfield OBE FREng, highlights the urgent need for a coordinated approach. The report stresses the importance of collaboration among government bodies, insurance companies, lenders, and the construction sector to tackle this challenge effectively.

The Role of Small and Medium-Sized Builders

Small and medium-sized builders are identified as key players in delivering trusted and high-quality flood resilience measures. These include practical solutions such as installing flood doors, raising electrical systems, and implementing permeable paving. The FMB champions the Review’s focus on equipping builders with the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate these measures seamlessly into their everyday work.

Enhancing Standards and Consumer Confidence

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, stated that making property flood resilience as commonplace as insulation or fire safety requires robust standards, readily available products, and a skilled workforce. He emphasized that SME builders, with their local expertise, are crucial for implementing effective PFR solutions. Berry also highlighted the FMB’s belief that licensing builders is a vital step towards raising industry standards and boosting consumer confidence. By improving training, establishing clear guidelines, and ensuring homeowners have access to reliable products and services, flood resilience can become a standard aspect of building and retrofit projects, future-proofing homes and supporting communities.

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Construction site halted due to quantity surveyor shortage.

Construction Projects Grind to a Halt as Quantity Surveyor Shortage Bites Deep

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A critical shortage of Quantity Surveyors (QSs) is significantly impacting the UK’s construction sector, with nearly half of all projects experiencing delays and budget overruns. Research from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) reveals an ageing workforce not being adequately replenished by new talent, leading to a substantial reduction in work capacity and output across the industry.

Key Takeaways

  • Nearly one-third of construction firms describe the QS shortfall as critical.
  • Over half of respondents report reduced work capacity due to the shortage.
  • Delays and budget overruns are becoming commonplace on affected projects.

The Growing Skills Gap

The findings from RICS paint a stark picture of the challenges facing the construction industry. An alarming number of firms are struggling to find qualified QSs, a situation exacerbated by an aging demographic within the profession. This lack of new entrants means that the demand for these essential professionals far outstrips the available supply.

Impact on Projects

The consequences of this shortage are being felt directly on construction sites nationwide. With insufficient QSs to manage costs, contracts, and valuations effectively, projects are experiencing significant delays. Furthermore, the inability to accurately forecast and control expenses is leading to substantial budget overruns, putting financial strain on developers and contractors alike.

Proposed Solutions

In response to this skills crisis, surveyors have put forward several potential solutions. These include:

  • Expanding apprenticeship and work-based learning opportunities to attract new talent.
  • Enhancing the promotion of surveying careers to a wider audience.
  • Investing in upskilling existing professionals to meet evolving industry demands.
  • Fostering stronger collaboration between academic institutions and industry to ensure training aligns with practical needs.

A Call to Action

RICS Acting President, Nick Maclean, highlighted the immense opportunities available for both new entrants and existing professionals looking to adapt to technological advancements. He stressed that addressing the skills gap is not just an industry concern but is crucial for meeting national targets, including the delivery of 1.5 million new homes and essential infrastructure improvements outlined in the government’s ten-year strategy.

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Large-scale earthworks at Sizewell C nuclear power plant construction site.

Sizewell C Kicks Off £250 Million Earthworks Project for Nuclear Plant Construction

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Sizewell C has initiated the procurement process for a significant earthworks contract, valued at up to £250 million. This crucial step involves the excavation of over 3.2 million cubic metres of material to prepare the site for the construction of the new nuclear power plant in Suffolk.

Key Takeaways

  • A £250 million earthworks contract has been launched by Sizewell C.
  • The project requires the excavation of approximately 3.3 million cubic metres of material.
  • The contract duration is two years, commencing in January 2027.
  • Bidders must submit applications by 31 October 2025.

Preparing the Ground for a New Nuclear Era

The contract encompasses the removal of various materials, including made ground, peat, and crag sand, from the main construction area. Approximately 3.3 million cubic metres of this excavated material will be transported via a dedicated haul road to designated stockpiling or disposal zones within a temporary construction area. This strategic approach allows for the backfilling of cleared zones to commence simultaneously with ongoing excavation, thereby accelerating the construction timeline for Units 1 and 2 of the £38 billion project.

Scope of the Earthworks Contract

Beyond bulk excavation, the contract also includes essential tasks such as material suitability testing, shaping and compacting of stockpiles, and rigorous compliance monitoring to adhere to the project’s quality plan. Transport operations will be managed using all-terrain dump trucks operating on an access road overseen by the Civil Works Alliance, which comprises Balfour Beatty, Laing O’Rourke, and Bouygues Travaux Publics.

Project Timeline and Procurement

The two-year works contract is scheduled to begin on 4 January 2027 and conclude on 8 December 2028. Interested parties have until 31 October 2025 to submit their applications through the CompeteFor portal. This earthworks package is one of several major contracts being awarded as Sizewell C, developed by EDF and its partners, progresses towards full construction mobilisation following the UK government’s final investment decision in July.

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Construction site with machinery and workers.

UK Construction Sector Sees Modest Growth in August Amidst Economic Headwinds

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The UK construction industry experienced a slight uptick in output, growing by 0.3% in the three months to August 2025, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This modest expansion comes despite ongoing economic uncertainties and challenges within the sector, including low planning approvals and rising costs.

Key Takeaways

  • Total construction output grew by 0.3% in the three months to August 2025.
  • New work saw a decrease of 0.4% over the same period.
  • Repair and maintenance activities increased by 1.3% in the three-month period.
  • Monthly output in August fell by 0.3% after a flat July.

Sector Performance

The ONS data reveals a mixed performance across the construction sectors. While overall output saw a marginal increase, new work experienced a decline of 0.4% in the three months leading up to August. Conversely, the repair and maintenance segment demonstrated stronger growth, rising by 1.3% during the same timeframe. At a more granular level, five out of the nine tracked sectors reported growth. The primary driver for this expansion was the private housing repair and maintenance sub-sector, which surged by an impressive 5.6%.

Monthly Fluctuations

On a month-to-month basis, construction output contracted by 0.3% in August 2025, following a period of no growth in July. This monthly decrease was attributed solely to a 1.5% fall in repair and maintenance activities, as new work saw a positive monthly increase of 0.5%.

Industry Reactions and Outlook

Industry experts have offered a cautious perspective on these figures. Neil Leitch, managing director of development finance at Hampshire Trust Bank, described the growth as a “welcome surprise” given the prevailing challenges, such as record low planning approvals and a halving of approvals for small sites. He highlighted the unsustainability of current constraints, which hinder new home delivery and threaten government pledges.

Clive Docwra, managing director at McBains, noted that the figures reflect a subdued economic picture. He pointed to investor caution regarding new project spending due to persistent economic uncertainties. While new work orders saw an increase in August, many developers are expected to postpone plans until after the upcoming Budget, seeking further incentives to stimulate building activity.

Suggestions for boosting the housing market include abolishing stamp duty and reforming council tax to reduce barriers to moving and inject confidence into the sluggish housebuilding sector. The industry is looking to the Budget for measures that will support planning departments, enhance local delivery capacity, and attract talent to construction, ultimately aiming to address the shortfall in new homes and regional delivery gaps.

Key Takeaways

Birmingham Ladywood skyline with new housing developments.

Birmingham’s Ladywood Set for £2.5 Billion Transformation: Up to 12,000 New Homes Planned

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Birmingham is set to undergo a significant transformation with the advancement of the £2.5 billion Ladywood regeneration project. This ambitious, long-term initiative aims to deliver up to 12,000 new homes, create thousands of jobs, and significantly improve living standards in the heart of the city. The project, a partnership between Birmingham City Council and Berkeley St Joseph, is being hailed as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape the Ladywood Estate.

Key Takeaways

  • Scale of Development: Plans aim to deliver up to 12,000 new homes, addressing a significant portion of Birmingham’s housing needs.
  • Affordable Housing: At least 20% of the new homes will be designated as affordable housing.
  • Council Homes: Existing council homes will be maintained, with all either renewed or replaced to modern standards.
  • Economic Impact: The regeneration is projected to create up to 41,000 jobs and 1,000 apprenticeships.
  • Community Focus: Resident involvement is central, with steering groups and charters ensuring community feedback shapes the masterplan.

A Transformational Vision for Ladywood

The regeneration of the Ladywood Estate is envisioned as a 20-year project, with initial work on site not expected until at least 2028. However, progress is accelerating, with community consultations actively informing a comprehensive masterplan for the area. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the development meets the needs and aspirations of local residents.

Enhancing Community Living

Beyond housing, the project promises to enhance the quality of life in Ladywood. Plans include improved facilities, better transport links, enhanced walking routes, and increased green spaces. The commitment to maintaining and upgrading existing council homes underscores a focus on providing safer, warmer, and more sustainable living environments for current residents.

Partnership and Investment

The £2.5 billion investment is a joint effort between Birmingham City Council and Berkeley St Joseph, a subsidiary of the Berkeley Group. This partnership is working closely with the West Midlands Combined Authority to secure necessary central government support to kickstart the delivery phase. The project is considered one of Europe’s largest urban regeneration sites and is expected to deliver 10% of the city’s housing needs up to 2044.

Resident Engagement

Central to the regeneration’s success is the active involvement of the local community. An independent steering group comprising local residents has been appointed to gather and relay feedback. Furthermore, a Resident and Community Charter has been established to outline the council’s commitments to those affected by the regeneration, ensuring transparency and support throughout the process. Planning Aid will also provide specialist advice to residents during the masterplanning and engagement phases.

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Prison construction site with crane and blueprints.

Kier Secures £250 Million in Contracts for Major Prison Expansion Projects

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Construction firm Kier has been awarded significant contracts totalling £250 million to expand prison capacity at HMP Northumberland and HMP Lancaster Farms. These projects are part of the Ministry of Justice’s initiative to increase the number of available prison places across the UK. The expansion will involve the construction of new houseblocks and associated facilities, aiming to enhance security and rehabilitation opportunities.

Key Takeaways

  • Kier awarded £250 million in contracts for prison expansions at HMP Northumberland and HMP Lancaster Farms.
  • The projects will add 480 prison places and include four new houseblocks at each site.
  • Completion is expected by early 2027.
  • These contracts reinforce Kier’s position as a leading contractor in the UK justice sector.

Project Scope and Timeline

Under the terms of the contracts, Kier will deliver four new houseblocks at both HMP Northumberland and HMP Lancaster Farms. In addition to the new accommodation, the projects encompass the development of new site-wide infrastructure and upgrades to existing ancillary facilities. The construction is slated for completion by early 2027.

Government’s Prison Capacity Drive

These expansions are a crucial component of the government’s broader strategy to create 14,000 new prison places by 2031. Kier’s involvement in the Small Secure Houseblocks Programme (SSHP) Alliance for the Ministry of Justice underscores its role in this national effort. This latest award brings the total number of houseblocks Kier will have delivered for the Ministry of Justice and the Scottish Prison Service to 30 in recent years.

Kier’s Track Record and Rehabilitation Initiatives

Kier has a proven history in delivering projects within the justice sector, having previously completed HMP Five Wells and HMP Millsike. The company is also currently undertaking expansions at HMPs Elmley, Bullingdon, and Channings Wood. Beyond construction, Kier is committed to rehabilitation through its ‘Making Ground’ initiative. This program offers training and employment opportunities for prisoners, with 29 individuals at HMP Channings Wood recently graduating from its ‘Hard Hat Ready’ course. Over the past three years, this initiative has led to 75 prison leavers securing employment and 64 placements for prisoners released on temporary licence.

Strategic Importance and Future Outlook

Rebecca Boundy, Kier Construction’s Managing Director for Justice, expressed pride in being a trusted delivery partner, emphasizing the focus on repeatability and continuous improvement to enhance performance and reduce lifecycle costs. Fiona Parker, Deputy Director for the SSHP at His Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service, highlighted that the expansions are a vital step towards providing secure, modern, and rehabilitative facilities that contribute to public protection and prisoner development.

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New social and affordable homes built in Manchester.

Manchester City Council Unlocks Over 700 New Social and Affordable Homes

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Manchester City Council is set to significantly boost the city’s affordable housing stock with plans to release council-owned land for the development of over 700 new social and affordable homes. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to meet the city’s ambitious housing targets and provide much-needed homes for residents.

Key Takeaways

  • Over 700 new social and affordable homes will be built on council-owned land.
  • The developments aim to meet the city’s target of 10,000 new social, council, and affordable homes by 2032.
  • Partnerships with housing providers are crucial to delivering these homes at pace.
  • Several specific sites across the city have been identified for development.

Boosting Affordable Housing Stock

Mancunian residents will soon benefit from a substantial increase in social and affordable housing as Manchester City Council moves forward with plans to utilize its own land for new developments. This initiative is a key component of the city’s commitment to building at least 10,000 new social, council, and affordable homes by 2032, with a specific focus on delivering 3,000 homes in the city centre.

Strategic Land Use and Partnerships

The council is leveraging its unused and surplus land parcels by collaborating with the Manchester Housing Providers Partnership (MHPP). This partnership ensures that the right mix of homes are built in areas where they are most needed. Over the past three years, MHPP members have been responsible for approximately 90% of all affordable homes constructed in Manchester, with a strong emphasis on keeping rents at social rent or Manchester Living Rent levels.

Upcoming Developments Across Manchester

Several sites have been earmarked for these new homes, including:

  • Broadmoss, Charlestown: 271 homes for social rent and shared ownership.
  • Viadux 2, Deansgate: A 133-unit social rent apartment tower.
  • Alexandra Road, Moss Side: 64 homes and apartments capped at Manchester Living Rent.
  • Gransmoor Avenue, Openshaw: 51 social rent homes.
  • Former Levenshulme Baths: 34 apartments capped at Manchester Living Rent.
  • Project 500 Phase 2: An additional 160 homes across 12 sites in north and east Manchester.

Furthermore, plans are in motion for an additional 400 homes in Gorton Town Centre, to be built by Clarion.

Council’s Commitment to Housing

Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, highlighted the council’s dedication to its housing strategy. “We are delivering on our commitment… to vastly increase the number of affordable homes – including significant numbers of social housing – being built in Manchester,” she stated. Craig emphasized that the current pace of affordable home construction on council land is unprecedented since 2015, a success attributed to strong partnerships with city housing providers. “Providing council-owned land to create opportunities for new home building is a proven approach,” she added, noting that over 1,000 affordable homes have been unlocked this month alone through these latest developments.

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New medical centre construction at Harrogate Hospital.

G&H Secures £12 Million Contract for Harrogate Hospital’s New Medical Centre

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Leeds-based G&H has been awarded a significant £12 million contract by main contractor Morgan Sindall Construction to deliver the mechanical, electrical, and public health (MEP) services for a new state-of-the-art Day Care Surgery and Imaging Centre at Harrogate District Hospital. This development is a key part of the Harrogate & District NHS Foundation Trust’s transformation programme, aimed at enhancing patient care and reducing waiting times.

Key Takeaways

  • G&H has won a £12 million MEP contract for Harrogate District Hospital’s new £50 million facility.
  • The centre will feature two operating theatres, three x-ray rooms, an MRI suite, a procedure room, and a day care ward.
  • The project is funded by the government’s Targeted Investment Fund 2 (TIF2).
  • Completion is scheduled for Summer 2026, with a focus on energy efficiency and resilient power systems.

Project Scope and Features

The new £50 million facility is designed to accelerate elective care recovery and significantly reduce patient waiting lists. G&H will be responsible for the complete MEP design and build, installing and commissioning all necessary services. This includes theatre equipment, piped medical gas, ultraclean ventilation canopies for MRI scanners, specialist nurse call systems, power, and ventilation.

A 60-strong team from G&H commenced work on-site on October 6th, bringing their extensive experience in healthcare facilities to the project. The centre will house two operating theatres, three x-ray rooms, an MRI suite, a procedure room, and a dedicated day care ward, all designed to provide an improved environment for both patients and staff.

Energy Efficiency and Resilience

Scheduled for completion and handover in Summer 2026, the building will incorporate numerous energy-saving features. These include air source heat pumps, Ultra Clean Ventilation (UCV) canopies, chillers, and plate heat exchangers, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient operation.

Recognising the critical nature of a hospital environment, the electrical supply will be highly resilient. This is achieved through the installation of two high-voltage (HV) transformers, two uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units, and a main generator, complemented by backup connection points to ensure continuous power.

Collaboration and Vision

Steven Fry, Project Manager at Morgan Sindall Construction, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Personally, for me it is great to be working with the G&H team again and also great to be part of the Morgan Sindall and G&H journey. With G&H’s extensive experience in healthcare and fully collaborative approach aligning with ours here at Morgan Sindall, I am sure this project will be a success.”

Rob Woodward, Senior Contracts Manager (North) at G&H, added, “We’re extremely pleased to be collaborating with Morgan Sindall and to have the opportunity to draw on our vast healthcare experience to deliver the new Day Care Surgery and Imaging Centre. Our aim is always to bring buildings to life and transform them into safe, comfortable and efficient spaces where people can thrive. This new facility will help the Trust perform more surgeries, reduce waiting times, and provide an improved environment for patients and staff.”

The project is funded by the government’s Targeted Investment Fund 2 (TIF2), which aims to invest in projects that will accelerate elective care recovery and reduce waiting lists and times across the NHS.

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Edinburgh Banana Flats with scaffolding and green construction activity

Edinburgh’s Iconic ‘Banana Flats’ to Undergo £69m Eco Retrofit After Council Approval

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Edinburgh City Council has received the green light to embark on an ambitious £69 million retrofit project for the city’s landmark mid-century housing blocks, Cables Wynd House and Linksview House, in Leith. The retrofitting aims to modernise the listed buildings, improve living standards, and set new benchmarks for energy efficiency in Scottish social housing.

Key Takeaways

  • £69m retrofit of Cables Wynd House and Linksview House, both Category A-listed.
  • Major upgrades to energy efficiency, fire safety, and resident security standards.
  • Collaborative delivery involving architects, engineers, and resident input.

Landmark Homes to Receive Modern Transformation

Known locally as the “Banana Flats” because of Cables Wynd House’s distinctive shape, the two buildings together house around 310 families, mostly in social-rented accommodation. Built in the 1960s, these structures have gained recognition for their post-war architectural significance, and are now celebrated for their bold style and cultural value within the Leith community.

Upgrades Target Energy, Safety, and Comfort

The comprehensive overhaul will include:

  • Insulation and Heating: Substantial improvements to insulation and installation of energy-efficient heating systems to meet the rigorous Scottish Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH2).
  • Windows and Roofs: Modern, thermally efficient windows and brand new roofing.
  • Fire Safety: New sprinkler systems, upgraded fire-fighting lifts, and enhanced smoke ventilation throughout both towers.
  • Safety and Access: Improvements to external and internal lighting, CCTV coverage, and building access controls.

Additionally, the council will introduce new waste management solutions and revamp entryways, making the blocks more accessible and secure for all residents.

Emphasis on Community Involvement

A distinctive aspect of the project is its resident engagement. Consultation cycles, design feedback sessions, and neighbourhood meetings ensured that tenants’ voices informed every key stage. Residents identified persistent issues like draughts, poor insulation, unreliable heating, and accessibility concerns. These have been prioritised in the final designs with a focus on making homes warmer, healthier, and safer.

Creating Greener, More Liveable Neighbourhoods

The outdoor areas will also see significant enhancements. Plans include new play spaces for children, wildflower meadows to promote biodiversity, and sustainable drainage installations. Parking and communal waste facilities will also be improved, reflecting a holistic approach to community regeneration.

Setting A Precedent For Listed Block Retrofits

With a multidisciplinary team—including architects, engineers, and energy consultants—this project will demonstrate how Scotland’s historic housing stock can be elevated to modern standards without compromising architectural integrity. Council leaders express hope that the retrofit could become an exemplar for similar listed block upgrades nationwide, showcasing sustainable transformation while preserving community heritage.

Further Reading

Wolverhampton police station under renovation with scaffolding.

Wolverhampton’s Iconic Police Station Gets £9m Makeover: A Modern Transformation Begins

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Wolverhampton Central Police Station, an iconic building opened by Princess Diana in 1992, is undergoing a £9 million refurbishment led by Henry Brothers Construction. This long-awaited upgrade promises to modernise facilities, enhance community support, and bring a significant boost to the local economy, all while keeping the station open and fully operational.

Key Takeaways

  • £9 million refurbishment underway at Wolverhampton Central Police Station
  • Works led by Henry Brothers Construction and set to last 16 months
  • Station remains open and serving the community throughout the revamp
  • Improvements include new victim care facilities, energy upgrades, and a community-focused café

Refurbishment Aims To Future-Proof Policing

The 1992-built station has remained largely unchanged for over three decades. Now, essential updates are being made to safeguard its long-term future. The upgrades feature new windows, state-of-the-art heating and cooling systems, leak and damp repairs, enhanced insulation, installation of solar panels, and energy-efficient LED lighting. Additionally, advanced safety and security measures will ensure the premises are fit for modern policing.

Enhanced Victim Care And Staff Facilities

A major focus of the refurbishment is the creation of new victim care rooms and improved staff areas. West Midlands Police leadership emphasises that victim support has become increasingly central to modern policing. The changes will provide officers with a more modern workplace and improve the quality of services offered to those in need.

Community Investment And Local Opportunities

The project prioritises local economic benefits. Henry Brothers Construction is utilising local contractors and apprentices, thus channelling a significant portion of the investment back into the community. Financial support for the scheme is a result of smart estate management, energy savings, robotics, and AI enhancements in police processes, ensuring every penny is spent efficiently.

A new on-site café will be established, managed by a local non-profit. This initiative will offer employment and training opportunities to disadvantaged individuals, including those experiencing homelessness, disabled people, and those lacking formal qualifications—mirroring successful models already in use elsewhere in the region.

Minimising Public And Policing Disruption

Despite the scale of works, operational continuity is a top priority. Some policing teams have relocated temporarily to nearby stations in Wednesfield and Bilston, but Wolverhampton Central will remain open to the public. Police leadership has committed to maintaining uninterrupted service throughout the project’s 16-month timeline.

A Pledge To Modern, Neighbourhood-Focused Policing

The investment demonstrates a clear commitment to the future of community policing in the West Midlands. By securing state-of-the-art, accessible facilities, the project aims to ensure police officers and staff have the resources they need, while strengthening support for victims and the wider public.

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