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July 8, 2025
Hard Hats, Soft Hearts: Spencer Group recognised for outstanding commitment to employee wellbeing

Hard Hats, Soft Hearts – Spencer Group recognised for outstanding commitment to employee wellbeing

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Multi-disciplinary engineering contractor Spencer Group has been recognised for its dedication to employee wellbeing, social responsibility and fostering young talent. Spencer Group claimed the award for Best Place to Work – Contractor in the prestigious New Civil Engineer Awards 2025. The award recognises a business that has implemented exemplary initiatives

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Winvic champions female talent with seven finalists at the 2025 Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards

Winvic champions female talent with seven finalists at the 2025 Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects is proud to announce the shortlisting of seven awards at this year’s prestigious ‘Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards’ (IWCE).  The shortlist celebrates both individual

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Wingstop Expands Further with New Westfield London Restaurant

Wingstop Expands Further with New Westfield London Restaurant

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Wingstop has continued its rapid UK expansion with the launch of a new restaurant at Westfield London in Shepherd’s Bush. Situated on the Lower Mall, the new 3,379 sq ft venue offers seating for over 136 diners and marks another significant step in the fried chicken chain’s strategic growth across

Read More »
SGS UK Retail, TDL Media and XPE Group Plc announce strategic partnership to amplify the retail and leisure offer at Braehead

SGS UK Retail, TDL Media and XPE Group Plc announce strategic partnership to amplify the retail and leisure offer at Braehead 

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

SGS UK Retail, TDL Media and XPE have launched a strategic partnership to align the marketing, management and leasing of Braehead Shopping Centre, Braehead Arena and XSite, the adjacent regional leisure destination.  Called Braehead Ambition, the partnership will add value for visitors, retailers and operators, working in collaboration to deliver

Read More »
AER Rents Signals Growth with Major Order of 50 SANY Machines

AER Rents Signals Growth with Major Order of 50 SANY Machines

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

AER Rents has placed a significant order with Chinese construction equipment manufacturer SANY, securing 50 new machines for its UK and Irish operations. The deal will see a mix of telehandlers and excavators delivered over the summer to support AER-owned businesses: MPH Hire & Sales, DHS Complete Hire, and Chippindale

Read More »
MGF Embeds Embodied Carbon Reporting Across All Temporary Works Designs

MGF Embeds Embodied Carbon Reporting Across All Temporary Works Designs

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

MGF, a leading temporary works specialist, has announced the integration of embodied carbon data as a standard feature across all its temporary works designs, further supporting the industry’s drive toward more sustainable construction practices. This development ensures that every MGF design now includes A1–A4 stage embodied carbon information – covering

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Construction Tax Shocks (And How To Avoid Them)

Construction Tax Shocks (And How To Avoid Them)

John Dale July 8, 2025

When it comes to paying construction tax, a lot of people are left reeling in shock. They think that their bills are going to be small, only to find out that they owe the government a lot of money.  But why does this happen? That’s the topic of this post.

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Latest Issue
Issue 330 : Jul 2025

July 8, 2025

Hard Hats, Soft Hearts: Spencer Group recognised for outstanding commitment to employee wellbeing

Hard Hats, Soft Hearts – Spencer Group recognised for outstanding commitment to employee wellbeing

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Multi-disciplinary engineering contractor Spencer Group has been recognised for its dedication to employee wellbeing, social responsibility and fostering young talent. Spencer Group claimed the award for Best Place to Work – Contractor in the prestigious New Civil Engineer Awards 2025. The award recognises a business that has implemented exemplary initiatives to improve the wellbeing of its employees, both personally and professionally. Colleagues from Spencer Group were presented with the accolade during a glittering awards ceremony at the Hilton Bankside in London. Spencer Group’s entry for the award carried the slogan “Hard Hats, Soft Hearts”, summarising the company’s commitment to building a culture where everyone belongs. Spencer Group is committed to employee wellbeing and has a business model that places equal opportunities and inclusivity at its core. Employees say they feel cared for and supported by the business, with over 90 per cent saying they are satisfied working for the organisation and they know how they need to progress in order to be considered for promotion, in the latest employee survey. The company fosters an open and inclusive culture, where employee wellbeing is prioritised through initiatives such as Mental Health First Aiders, the Time to Talk Day pledge and family-friendly policies including flexible working hours and additional family leave. As a Founding Partner of Hull’s employer-led Ron Dearing University Technical College (UTC) in its home city of Hull, Spencer Group is passionate about helping to shape the future of the next generation of young people entering the workforce. Since the partnership’s inception, the business has recruited over 60 apprentices from the school, ensuring a continuous pipeline of young talent. Spencer Group also sets a strong example for other businesses by prioritising long-term, local talent development and creating a culture where employees are provided with the tools to succeed from an early age. The company also actively promotes from within, providing clear career progression through apprenticeships and training programmes, enabling the next generation to flourish. As a champion of female talent in a traditionally male-dominated sector, Spencer Group also actively supports organisations such as Women in Manufacturing and Engineering, to engage with women and showcase the exciting career opportunities available in engineering and helping fuel their passion for the industry. Listening to employees and making changes to meet their needs is also a top priority for Spencer Group. The company has recently implemented a new tool to provide greater insights into employee needs and ensure the company is always improving and adapting. The PRINT® tool includes a combination of customised reports, insightful workshops and team/individual coaching that reveal the unconscious motivators behind employee behaviours and actions. The initiative promotes open dialogue between employees and management, allowing for a personalised approach to leadership. It ensures that staff are placed in roles and projects that align with their strengths, improving job satisfaction and productivity. PRINT® results are also incorporated into Spencer Group’s Personal Development Review (PDR) process, enabling employees to track their growth and receive targeted development support. Spencer Group is also committed to leaving a lasting and positive impact on the communities in which it works having raised over £61,000 for various charities over the last decade through employee driven initiatives. The business has supported numerous causes which are close to the hearts of employees including Teenage Cancer Trust, Mind, The Trussell Trust and many more. The combination of Spencer Group’s extensive employee initiatives has led to significant positive changes in employee engagement, retention and satisfaction, creating a lasting impact on both individual careers and the overall company culture. Yvonne Moir, HR Director said: “We’re delighted that our commitment to being an outstanding employer has been recognised in the New Civil Engineer Awards. “We have a clear understanding that our people are the key to our success and we prioritise their wellbeing at every level. “We pride ourselves on being a modern employer in a traditional sector, placing people at the heart of everything we do. We strive to listen to our employees and are constantly evolving to meet their needs. “This award reflects the hard work and commitment of our entire workforce, and without their support this award would not be possible.” The awards judges noted how impressed they were with Spencer Group’s commitment to developing and supporting its employees. In the award citation, they said: “We were wowed by the results of the staff survey that showed how successful this company’s personalised development approach is. The company is a founder of the local University Technical College that helps young people to stay local and provides a pipeline of talent. The panel particularly liked the strapline: Hard Hats, Soft Hearts.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Winvic champions female talent with seven finalists at the 2025 Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards

Winvic champions female talent with seven finalists at the 2025 Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects is proud to announce the shortlisting of seven awards at this year’s prestigious ‘Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards’ (IWCE).  The shortlist celebrates both individual excellence and Winvic’s company-wide commitment to advancing equity and inclusion in the built environment.   Among the impressive ‘Rising Star’ shortlisted entries are four members of the Winvic team:  Winvic is also thrilled to announce that Heidi Salmons, Director of Marketing, Business Development, and Social Responsibility, has been individually shortlisted in the ‘Inspirational Leader – Contractor’ category, recognising women in leadership positions who have used their influence to inspire and engage the workforce to improve outcomes for customers and their business.   Heidi has transformed Winvic’s marketing, business development and social value functions, developing her team from three to 13, while fostering a learning culture with people development at its heart. Her inspiring leadership engages colleagues at all levels and builds collaborative partnerships with clients, consultants and the supply chain, to improve business outcomes and deliver tangible impact for clients and communities. As a Board Member, she drives innovation through strategic Social Value, ESG, brand and business development initiatives, empowering others and shaping a more inclusive, purpose-led organisation.  The company has further been recognised for its industry-leading workplace culture with two company-led entries shortlisted for ‘Company of the Year’ and ‘Excellence in Mental Health and Wellbeing’.   The ‘Company of the Year’ category recognises organisations making outstanding contributions to inspiring women within the construction and engineering sector, demonstrating commitment to an excellent working environment and encouraging diversity through specific initiatives and policies. Winvic actively supports female recruitment, retention, and career growth through a range of impactful initiatives, including the Winvic Enrichment Programme (WEP), which gives young women hands-on experience of construction roles, alongside building strong relationships with education partners to tailor engagement to the needs of female students, supporting their career research and aspirations. On site, inclusivity is promoted through dedicated welfare facilities, free period products and female-specific PPE. Winvic’s industry-leading, enhanced maternity policy of 24 weeks’ full pay and 15 weeks’ half pay, further supports long-term career progression, and has contributed to a 40% increase in female employees in the last five years.  The ‘Excellence in Mental Health and Wellbeing’ award celebrates teams and companies that have gone above and beyond to promote mental health support and wellbeing. Winvic shines a spotlight on both physical and mental health through a range of impactful initiatives, communications and its partnership with Mates in Mind, the UK based construction charity.  A culture of speaking up and championing physical activity is evident through Mental Health First Aider courses, an Employee Assistance Programme, a yearly 24-hour National Fitness Day fundraiser and other challenges engaging hundreds of colleagues every month – contributing to an enviable staff retention rate, alongside growing participation in the company’s wellbeing programmes.  Commenting on the nominations, Rebecca Schwarz – Director of People & Resources said: “These nominations are a true reflection of the exceptional talent we have at Winvic and the inclusive culture we’ve built together. From rising stars to senior leaders, and our company-wide commitment to fostering inclusivity, supporting mental health, and spearheading positive change within our sector, we’re immensely proud to be recognised across so many categories. These awards showcase how our people-first approach continues to shape a high-performing environment where individuals thrive and demonstrate the vital role of equity, opportunity, and strong leadership in shaping the future of our industry.”  All shortlisted individuals and organisations will now take part in a dedicated workshop followed by a final stage judging process. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Tuesday 16th September at the Royal Lancaster London.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Wingstop Expands Further with New Westfield London Restaurant

Wingstop Expands Further with New Westfield London Restaurant

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Wingstop has continued its rapid UK expansion with the launch of a new restaurant at Westfield London in Shepherd’s Bush. Situated on the Lower Mall, the new 3,379 sq ft venue offers seating for over 136 diners and marks another significant step in the fried chicken chain’s strategic growth across the capital. It follows the brand’s global flagship opening at Westfield Stratford City last year. The Westfield London branch serves Wingstop’s signature selection of wings, tenders, and burgers, complemented by an array of sides, milkshakes, desserts, and beers. Chris Sherriff, CEO of Wingstop UK, commented: “We’re thrilled to open at Westfield Shepherd’s Bush, the UK’s largest shopping centre. This launch builds on the success of our Stratford flagship and represents the next milestone in our London expansion. With demand for our flavours at an all-time high, 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptional year. A huge thank you goes out to our loyal customers and our teams for making this possible.” Wingstop first entered the UK market in 2018 and has rapidly grown its presence. Earlier this year, the brand announced its most ambitious pipeline to date, with plans to launch over 20 new sites across the UK in 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Signify myCreation launches Puzzle, first-of-its-kind linear and modular lighting for the workplace

Signify myCreation launches Puzzle, first-of-its-kind linear and modular lighting for the workplace

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, launches Puzzle – the first luminaire of its kind to combine striking, continuous light with office compliance, task-ready performance and a breakthrough in sustainable design using 75% recycled PET material. This first Puzzle lighting product launches in July and is tailored to provide task lighting at desks, meeting rooms and other office environments. Available in a 4 and 5 feet linear pendant size, Puzzle is designed with a soft seamless glow that helps to improve focus while working2 and elevate and enrich workspace design. Puzzle integrates seamlessly with smart systems, such as Signify’s Interact, providing access to energy-saving features, including occupancy detection and daylight harvesting. Puzzle allows for sensors to be integrated or external, allowing flexibility depending on the ceiling design. Pendants are available in different lumen outputs with wired and wireless control options. The linear components are designed to fit together like puzzle pieces. Designed by Florent Coirier and brought to life through Signify’s cutting-edge 3D-printing technology, Puzzle also sets a new benchmark for circular lighting design. All printed parts are made from 75% recycled PET, drawn from a range of materials including bottles, carpet, polyester clothing and eye glasses. The use of 3D printing also helps minimize waste, resulting in a more efficient production process. The Puzzle range is available for customers in Europe. Further extensions will be launched next year, and are designed to create bold, layered ceiling compositions in different environments, including hospitality spaces with height and character. Bart Maeyens, Head of Signify myCreation: “At Signify myCreation, we focus on creating spaces where people want to be and love to work, while living our own purpose: leading in sustainability on the journey and designing our lighting solutions to be truly circular.” “Office requirements in terms of functionality, performance, and smart operating systems in lighting have become a standard. We sought to push the performance boundaries and, in parallel, create a new aesthetic language in the functional office category. That is what we did with Puzzle. We puzzled together function, performance, sustainability and aesthetic elegance.” Florent Coirier, designer of Puzzle said, “My design inspiration was the way pieces fit together in a jigsaw puzzle, where individual components integrate seamlessly to form one cohesive whole. The Puzzle range features clear, elegant shapes and a structure composed of square cells, reflecting the interplay of light and structure.” “Working with Signify technology has enabled us to create a piece of art that is functional and helps to create a welcoming environment in which to work.” 1 Office compliant lighting meets specific standards and regulations (EN 12464-1) designed to ensure a safe, comfortable, and productive work environment. 2 The product complies with the Unified Glare Rating (UGR19). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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SGS UK Retail, TDL Media and XPE Group Plc announce strategic partnership to amplify the retail and leisure offer at Braehead

SGS UK Retail, TDL Media and XPE Group Plc announce strategic partnership to amplify the retail and leisure offer at Braehead 

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

SGS UK Retail, TDL Media and XPE have launched a strategic partnership to align the marketing, management and leasing of Braehead Shopping Centre, Braehead Arena and XSite, the adjacent regional leisure destination.  Called Braehead Ambition, the partnership will add value for visitors, retailers and operators, working in collaboration to deliver a consistent and clear approach to the customer experience across the extensive Braehead estate. Reporting to a board comprising SGS UK Retail, TDL Media and XPE Group Plc, the asset management and operational team includes Pradera Lateral, Savills, BWP Group, Lunson Mitchenall, BGP, and Metis.  The owners and their advisors will work as one team to enhance and evolve the assets, and visitors, retailers, and operators can look forward to an even more enlivened, coherent and compelling experience, amplifying and expanding the natural trading synergy between adjacent ownerships. Totalling 1,450,000 sq ft and attracting a combined 16.3 million visitors a year (which is expected to grow to 17.6 million by the end of 2026), Braehead Shopping Centre, XSite and The Arena offer shopping, dining, leisure and entertainment, along with live events, exhibitions, sport and extensive free parking.  As well as the local population, the destination serves a loyal and growing catchment of 2.2 million people with over £6.3 billion of available retail and leisure spend.  Braehead Ambition will ensure Braehead is always the destination of choice for consumers, and for retail and leisure businesses looking to open in Glasgow. Commenting on the creation of the partnership, Claire Barber, CEO of SGS UK Retail, said: “The scale and diversity of Braehead Ambition’s offer means the destination is more relevant to more consumers more of the time.  The partnership will position Braehead as a lifestyle choice, creating even higher levels of loyalty and engagement that will drive the commercial performance of the individual assets, and the wider social and economic prosperity of the area.” Barry Cox, Non-Exec Director at XPE Group Plc, commented: “This partnership celebrates a shared commitment to offer consumers a unique destination, one whose total is greater even than the sum of the parts.  As consumers are becoming ever more discerning as to where and how they spend their time and money, bringing together the strength of our individual assets to create the strongest destination of scale in Glasgow makes total sense for our customers, our business partners, and for Renfrew.” Councillor John Shaw, Convener of Finance, Resources and Customer Services at Renfrewshire Council and Chair of Renfrew Local Partnership, also welcomed the initiative, adding: “I welcome the creation of this strategic partnership between Braehead Shopping Centre, Braehead Arena and XSite.  Individually, each is very popular and very successful, but together they create a destination unrivalled in Scotland.  This collective approach creates more choice, scale and opportunity, and I am confident the partnership will fuel further success for Braehead and bring additional benefits to the local area through community engagement.” All the assets in Braehead Ambition are benefiting from ongoing programme of enhancement, with over £12 million being invested by XPE Group Plc in XSite, and anchored around the recently announced K1 go karting attraction.  Similarly, SGS UK Retail has secured several new brands, upsizes and renewals at Braehead Shopping Centre, and Braehead Arena, which is now owned by TDL Media, has received upgrades that increase its flexibility as a 5,200-seat multi-purpose events and sports venue. In addition to Braehead Shopping Centre, Braehead Arena and XSite, the area has become established as a hub for premium automotive brands, such as Ferrari, Land Rover, Mercedes, BMW, Harley Davidson and Ducati, and is also home to IKEA and Sainsbury’s.  Alongside the significant growth in housing, public realm enhancements to Renfrew Riverside and major infrastructure investment, including the recently opened Renfrew Bridge spanning the River Clyde, are adding value to local residents and businesses. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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AER Rents Signals Growth with Major Order of 50 SANY Machines

AER Rents Signals Growth with Major Order of 50 SANY Machines

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

AER Rents has placed a significant order with Chinese construction equipment manufacturer SANY, securing 50 new machines for its UK and Irish operations. The deal will see a mix of telehandlers and excavators delivered over the summer to support AER-owned businesses: MPH Hire & Sales, DHS Complete Hire, and Chippindale Hire & Sales. Prior to placing the order, AER Rents executives travelled to SANY’s manufacturing facility in China to assess the company’s quality management processes first-hand. “This is more than just a fleet refresh – it’s a clear signal of our ambition,” said Gavin Pitt, Chief Executive of AER Rents. “We’re expanding, partnering with the best, and placing performance, safety, and sustainability at the core of everything we deliver to our customers.” Distribution of the equipment will be handled by SANY’s regional dealer network. Banner Equipment will supply the majority of the order to Chippindale Hire & Sales. SANY UK’s direct sales team will deliver to MPH Hire & Sales in the southeast, while Sleator Plant will manage deliveries to DHS Complete Hire in Ireland. Rob Gowling, General Manager of Banner Equipment, commented: “This fleet expansion is fantastic news for all parties involved. It’s especially rewarding to see our long-standing relationship with Chippindale Hire & Sales extend across the wider AER Rents Group and into the broader SANY UK & Ireland network. SANY has firmly established itself in the construction sector, and this partnership strengthens that reputation further.” AER Rents Group, part of Ireland’s O’Flaherty Holdings, acquired Mr Plant Hire (now MPH) in 2014 and Chippindale Plant in 2022. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Nixon Hire Sharpens Strategic Focus On Sustainable Sites With Sale Of Welfarevan Fleet

Nixon Hire Sharpens Strategic Focus On Sustainable Sites With Sale Of Welfarevan Fleet

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

Proceeds will support investment in core, high-growth areas including Modular Buildings, Renewable Power, Site Accommodation and Site Welfare. Nixon Hire today announces the divestment of its welfarevan fleet, marking another important milestone in the company’s strategic evolution. With the assets no longer aligning with Nixon Hire’s long-term plans and vision of becoming the UK’s leading experts in sustainable sites, the company has opted to streamline its offering and redeploy capital into areas that deliver the greatest value for customers and support the company’s strategic objectives. These include Modular Buildings, Renewable Power, Site Accommodation, Site Welfare and other high-growth segments that enable customers to reduce emissions and improve business outcomes through connected, end-to-end site solutions – with each project handled by Nixon Hire’s team of dedicated experts from initial planning through to completion and collection. Nixon Hire has and continues to make strong progress in delivering its full-service sustainable site strategy – recently expanding and enhancing its Modular Buildings and Renewable Power fleets, implementing technological advancements to deliver a better experience at every touchpoint, and launching a dedicated Customer Data Centre to leverage real-time insights and offer tailored recommendations which align with its customers’ goals. Graham Nixon, CEO of Nixon Hire, said: “This is a carefully considered strategic deal and a positive outcome for all parties. The sale enables us to lean further and faster into our transition from generalist provider to specialist partner – directing additional capital into Modular Buildings, Renewable Power, Site Accommodation, Site Welfare and the other high-growth areas that define the ‘new’ Nixon Hire. “Our strategy has always been about listening to our customers and staying ahead of where the industry is going, being proactive and making decisive moves. Following a period of meaningful change to our operating model in line with that approach, we’re now seeing the benefits start to filter through, with healthy and sustainable commercial and operational momentum building across the business. “Looking forward, with a strong pipeline across our target markets and a wave of new products, services and innovations set to roll out, we have real confidence in the strength and direction of the business.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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MGF Embeds Embodied Carbon Reporting Across All Temporary Works Designs

MGF Embeds Embodied Carbon Reporting Across All Temporary Works Designs

Kenneth Booth July 8, 2025

MGF, a leading temporary works specialist, has announced the integration of embodied carbon data as a standard feature across all its temporary works designs, further supporting the industry’s drive toward more sustainable construction practices. This development ensures that every MGF design now includes A1–A4 stage embodied carbon information – covering raw materials, manufacturing and transport – in line with the latest Temporary Works Forum (TWF) guidance 2024, RICS Whole Life Carbon Assessment System 2023 and PAS 2080:2023 standards. Rather than offering carbon assessments as a separate or optional service, MGF has embedded carbon reporting directly into its design and hire systems – helping customers measure and reduce the impact of their projects from the outset. This means customers automatically receive transparent carbon data as part of every design package, helping project teams make informed decisions to reduce environmental impact from the earliest design stages. “Measuring embodied carbon is no longer a future consideration – it’s a present-day requirement,” explains Steve Hesketh, Director at MGF. “We’ve invested in making carbon reporting an integral part of how we design, specify and deliver temporary works, ensuring that sustainability and compliance are built into the process as standard.” MGF’s approach reflects its contribution to industry best practice. Hesketh led the team that developed the TWF’s most recent industry guidance on embodied carbon in temporary works – now recognised as a key reference document for the UK sector. This initiative supports the wider construction industry focus on indirect Scope 3 emissions reporting and whole-life carbon accounting, areas of increasing importance to infrastructure, utilities and energy clients. It also demonstrates the environmental benefits of the hire model, which research from the European Rental Association shows can reduce carbon emissions by up to 50% compared to ownership – benefits further enhanced by design-led carbon reporting. “Temporary works have a vital part to play in helping the industry meet carbon reduction targets,” adds Simon Littlewood, Managing Director at MGF. “By making embodied carbon data part of our standard offering, we’re giving customers practical, usable information that supports their own sustainability commitments while delivering safe, effective, and efficient groundworks solutions.” MGF’s carbon data initiative forms part of its broader commitment to helping customers meet sustainability goals while ensuring safety, compliance and performance across all temporary works projects. The company is now engaging customers and industry groups to highlight best practices and practical steps toward more transparent carbon accounting in temporary works. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Construction Tax Shocks (And How To Avoid Them)

Construction Tax Shocks (And How To Avoid Them)

John Dale July 8, 2025

When it comes to paying construction tax, a lot of people are left reeling in shock. They think that their bills are going to be small, only to find out that they owe the government a lot of money.  But why does this happen? That’s the topic of this post. We look at some of the most common tax shocks and how to avoid them:  Unexpected Income Tax On Construction And Building Side Hustles Tax shocks often begin with unexpected taxes on side hustles. You start making money (or at least, that’s what you think is happening) but fail to realize that side hustle income often returns to the government. Making the payments on account self assessment demands is like an extra bonus tax, paying toward future taxes.  You can avoid this issue by estimating your quarterly tax payments and setting aside around a third of your side hustle income for tax. This combination should mean that you have sufficient income without worrying about the potential hit on your lifestyle.  Capital Gains On Investments Another issue you might face is capital gains tax on your investments if you’re developing property. Again, the amount of tax you can be charged is often extreme (and usually falls in line with your income tax bracket).  For example, a lot of investors pay between 20% and 45% tax on investments in their stock funds, simply because they sell and that counts as an income (even if reinvested).  To avoid this issue, always use a tax-advantaged account. Don’t rely on anything else unless you reach your limit.  Also, hold onto investments for longer. If you keep them for several years, you can often attract the lowest tax rates. Using depreciation on buildings may also work too.  Tax Penalties For Early Drawdowns Another tax shock are the penalties you receive when you draw down on your funds early for property investment. The government may tax these drawdowns, leading to higher overall payments.  Dealing with this problem is quite challenging. However, many people get around it by looking for exemptions (such as pleading hardship). It’s also possible to wait or simply plan retirement cash flow so that it continues to meet your needs.  Underwithholding From Your Paycheck Failing to withhold enough of your income can also lead to a big tax shock. Usually, builders are expected to keep back some of your wages to pay the tax on your income. However, if they get this wrong by withholding too little, it can lead to far higher taxes overall.  You can prevent this by monitoring your pay and making adjustments. If you notice that your contractor or builder has paid you too much, tell them immediately, otherwise it could come back to bite you.  You also want to tell your employer if you have a side-hustle or other non-monetary income. Again, this extra work can attract taxes, especially if it forms a significant portion of your income. Don’t get caught out as you may have to pay the tax and a fine. 

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