Industry reacts to National Planning Policy Framework changes

The construction industry has reacted with a range of positive and negative statements to the changes announced to the National Planning Policy Framework, which could have major implications for the housebuilding sector in 2025, although there remain several areas which... View Article

Tender prices up by 0.8%, reports BCIS

Tender prices increased by an estimated average of 0.8% between 3Q2024 and 4Q2024, according to the latest data from the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). The increase resulted in 2.3% annual growth in the BCIS All-in Tender Price Index, down from a peak... View Article
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Consultation launched on changes to Energy Performance Certificates

The Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government has launched a joint industry consultation with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to “reform” the EPC Framework to provide a “robust, well-rounded perspective on building performance.” The consultation outlines... View Article

Councils doubt they can achieve Government’s housing target

The BBC has obtained information from the industry consultation underway on the new mandatory private housing targets for local authorities, which include responses to the Government saying that achieving its 1.5 million homes target is “unrealistic” and “impossible.” Sir Keir... View Article

Following a learning curve

Despite the tricky construction challenges presented by a crescent-shaped architectural design, a determined couple have succeeded in creating their dream ‘forever’ home in the countryside TEXT Jess Unwin IMAGES John Naccarato John and Debra Naccarato’s decision to embrace a striking... View Article

James Hardie Launches New ‘Toolbox Talks’ Service

James Hardie, a world leader in the manufacture of high-performance fibre cement and fibre gypsum building solutions, has launched a new ‘Toolbox Talks’ service to provide builders and homeowners with essential installation knowledge across its product portfolio. Two new Technical... View Article

G15 housing association Hyde acquires Pinnacle Group

In what’s described as a “game-changing moment for the housing sector,” The Hyde Group has announced that it has acquired national property management firm Pinnacle Group for an undisclosed sum, in a major expansion of the G15 housing association’s capabilities.... View Article

Passivhaus proves low carbon building is possible

Conceived more than three decades ago in Germany, the Passivhaus standard has shown what is possible when creatinghealthy, comfortable and low-energy buildings. There are now thousands of certified Passivhaus projects worldwide, ranging from homes and schools to commercial and healthcare buildings –... View Article

HiB Announces Key Promotions in National Sales Team

HiB is pleased to announce the promotion of two key team members, marking an exciting new chapter in its national sales strategy. Steve Wortley has been promoted to the position of National Sales Manager. Having dedicated over 14 years to... View Article

Kath Cottier becomes chair of CIH Ireland

Kath Cottier, CEO of Fold Housing, has been approved as chair of CIH Ireland’s Advisory Board at the organisation’s sixtieth annual meeting on Monday 14 October. Kath has over 20 years of experience working in the Irish Housing Association sector;... View Article

Networking event for sustainability leaders set for December

Supported by Saint-Gobain, an exclusive networking event is to be staged in London this December aimed at construction sustainability innovators who are “committed to implementing change in the industry.” Sustainability consultant Darren Evans has launched the Thrive in Construction Networking... View Article