Kenneth Booth
Industry unites to support rollout of BS8681:2024 fall protection standard

Industry unites to support rollout of BS8681:2024 fall protection standard

The UK fall protection industry has come together in a major show of collaboration to support the rollout of BS8681:2024, a new standard that sets rigorous competency requirements for the design, installation, and inspection of personal fall protection systems. This proactive industry-led initiative marks a significant step forward in improving workplace

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Panattoni agrees strategic acquisition of new Milton Keynes site

Panattoni agrees strategic acquisition of new Milton Keynes site

Panattoni, the largest industrial real estate developer in Europe, has strengthened its commitment to Milton Keynes with an agreement to acquire a prime 5-acre site, marking the next phase of its strategic expansion in the region. The new development, Panattoni Milton Keynes 100, will be a single-unit of 100,000 sq

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Willmott Dixon Lands Second Major Project with Queen Mary University

Willmott Dixon Lands Second Major Project with Queen Mary University

Willmott Dixon has been appointed to deliver a £48.8 million transformation of Queen Mary University of London’s School of Business & Management — marking the construction firm’s second major project for the university within a year. Located in Tower Hamlets, the redevelopment will see a brand-new, seven-storey academic building designed

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National Federation of Roofing Contractors Welcomes Housebuilding Boost to Provide High-Quality Homes Across UK

National Federation of Roofing Contractors Welcomes Housebuilding Boost to Provide High-Quality Homes Across UK

NFRC (The National Federation of Roofing Contractors) welcomes the government’s announcements in its Spending Review, particularly the commitment to significantly increase funding for the Affordable Homes Programme. The intention to unlock greater private investment in housebuilding through Homes England is also a positive step, provided it is implemented effectively.  The

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Planning capacity must match Government housing plans, warns RTPI

Planning capacity must match Government housing plans, warns RTPI

The Government’s £39 billion Affordable Homes Programme signals a long-term approach to tackling the housing crisis. However, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) warns that, without sufficient planning capacity and access to specialist training, the delivery of sustainable, community-focused places remains at risk. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the

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Latest Issue
Issue 329 : Jun 2025

Kenneth Booth

£39bn affordable homes boost will require focus on MMC and more builders, says Actis

£39bn affordable homes boost will require focus on MMC and more builders, says Actis

Insulation specialist Actis has welcomed the £39 billion affordable housing investment announced in this week’s government spending review – but reiterates that offsite construction and training more builders will be key to the delivery of such homes over the coming decade. Actis is a long-time champion of tackling the housing crisis while at the same time ensuring that quality and thermal efficiency are of the highest possible standard. This involves embracing technologies and products which speed up the build process while investing in training the next generation of construction professionals says Mark Cooper, UK and Ireland sales director of Actis, whose Hybrid insulation system and two-in-one Eolis HC are popular choices for timber framers and housing developers. “This is described as the biggest cash injection into social housing in 50 years, which is excellent news,” he said. “But with an inadequately-sized construction workforce it’s important that homes which are quicker to build but don’t compromise on quality or thermal efficiency are part of the housing mix. This needs to be in tandem with encouraging more young people to enter the construction industry. “The government’s spring promise of £625 million to train 60,000 construction workers goes a considerable way towards helping with this, but with Checkatrade telling us that the UK needs another 1.3 million skilled workers and 350,000 apprentices to meet housing and net zero targets we must do more to increase the pool of building professionals at all levels.” Offsite-constructed homes can be built up to 30% more quickly than those of traditional brick and block, enabling developers to deliver homes at a faster rate and using fewer man hours per unit. “Many elements, including insulation, take place offsite, in the factory. Our insulation systems take between 25 and 50% less time to install than traditional alternatives, which all helps to speed up the process,” said Mark. “The site crew ‘just’ has to erect everything in the right order with a typical build time of between seven and 12 days, depending on the size of house. “Additionally, quality is far better controlled, and these timber frame homes can be thermally superb, cutting carbon emissions and saving money and resources.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CACI reveals Meadowhall as the UK’s most dominant super regional shopping centre

CACI reveals Meadowhall as the UK’s most dominant super regional shopping centre

CACI, the data specialists focused on people and place, have revealed that Meadowhall is the most dominant super regional shopping centre in the UK. The ranking has used a number of catchment spending metrics to measure those that are best at attracting and retaining spend. Taking first position, Meadowhall captures 18% of the total purse within its catchment, including online spend. The retail spend potential sits at nearly £1bn, given its inclusion of cities and towns like Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley, and Doncaster, with Meadowhall comfortably better than any of the 13 UK super regional shopping centres at securing that available spend. With 16 visits per year on average and an average transaction value of £156, Meadowhall has evidenced, strong customer retention. Located in close proximity to the M1, Meadowhall captures half of the 42m vehicles passing the destination each year, with unrivalled accessibility across the region. The destination has continued demand from leading retailers, with Sephora due to open this summer, and JD recently announcing its plans to upsize, creating its second largest store nationally. Wider demand over the last 12 months includes the opening of Zara’s significantly upsized flagship, and the new 100,000 sq ft Frasers ‘next-generation’ department store. It is this continued commitment that drives Meadowhall’s dominance, with 26 retailers investing £30m in their stores in the last 12 months, creating reasons to visit the destination time and time again. Alex McCulloch, Director at CACI, said: “Dominating the catchment is something every destination wants, and this data points to Meadowhall being a super regional in the UK that gives its customers exactly what they want, and that drives loyalty. Loyalty isn’t easy to build and maintain, but with strong leasing that aligns to the consumer, and a focus on elements like safety that make regional malls appealing for so many, these levels of dominance can be held for decades to come.” Darren Pearce, Centre Director at Meadowhall, commented: “Meadowhall has earned this dominance through continued investment in the destination, a thorough understanding of the catchment, and a collaborative leasing approach with leading national and international brands. Above and beyond providing best-in-class brands for our customers, we are committed to ensuring Meadowhall is a hub for the region, whether that be visiting our popular Oasis Food Court, or one of the many community events held within the destination.” JD’s commitment to Meadowhall for its second largest store nationally follows an announcement from CACI revealing a significant spending increase in gyms and fitness focused brands, comparing December 2024 with the same month in 2023. Consumers demonstrated an increased appetite for health and wellness beyond January and February, with athleisure benefitting from strong year-on-year growth, both offline and online. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Industry unites to support rollout of BS8681:2024 fall protection standard

Industry unites to support rollout of BS8681:2024 fall protection standard

The UK fall protection industry has come together in a major show of collaboration to support the rollout of BS8681:2024, a new standard that sets rigorous competency requirements for the design, installation, and inspection of personal fall protection systems. This proactive industry-led initiative marks a significant step forward in improving workplace safety at height. BS8681:2024 introduces a comprehensive framework of best practices in fall protection, covering key areas including: However, what truly sets the implementation of the new standard apart is the level of industry support behind it, from trade bodies to manufacturers, training providers, and awarding organisations.  “The rollout of BS8681:2024 represents more than just a change in standards; it’s a collective commitment to safer work environments,” said Alan Murray of BSIF, who led the coordination efforts. “By working together, the industry is accelerating adoption and ensuring that organisations are fully equipped to meet the new requirements.” Industry collaboration in action A core group of leading organisations, including 8point8 Training, Kee Safety, Hydrajaws, Smart Awards, and SFS, have joined forces to ensure that training, resources, and qualification pathways are aligned with the new standard to ensure a seamless transition for organisations adopting BS8681:2024 “Hydrajaws was thrilled to contribute by training 8point8 staff in the latest testing methods and data recording tools,” said Adrian Morgan of Hydrajaws, underlining the role of up-to-date practices in maintaining compliance. Equipping the workforce The rollout also focuses on upskilling the workforce. The first learners are completing the Level 3 NVQ in Access and Rigging – Fall Protection, and others are progressing through the new Level 3 Fall Protection Technician apprenticeship. “Our Group recognises the importance of training and development of our fall protection technicians and inspectors,” said Graham Willmott of Kee Safety. “As soon as the apprenticeship program was available, we committed to the program and enrolled our delegates.” Kee Safety is already seeing the benefits with individuals now starting to complete their apprenticeships and enter their final assessments. Through equipment donations, specialised training, and expert-led support, companies like SFS have ensured that learners can apply their skills on actual fall protection systems. “SFS was delighted to have the opportunity to support 8point8 Training Ltd with their delivery of the Level 3 Fall Protection Technician Apprenticeship and the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Accessing and Rigging,” said Jonathan Seymour of SFS. The safety solutions and fixings supplier provided sample systems, training, and materials which are essential tools that help apprentices understand installation and compliance in a controlled environment. With BS8681:2024 now live, the industry is not only embracing higher standards but actively ensuring that every level of the workforce has the tools, knowledge, and qualifications to meet them. “These qualifications are raising the industry’s standards,” said David Ravensdale of 8point8 Training, “ensuring that current and future professionals are fully equipped to handle the complexities of installing and maintaining fall protection systems.” Murray concludes: “As more professionals achieve advanced qualifications, the industry will continue to evolve, innovate, and strengthen safety standards, creating a highly skilled workforce capable of delivering excellence in fall protection.” For a more detailed article on the implementation of BS8681:2024, visit: https://www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org/bs86812024-elevating-fall-protection-standards-and-industry-collaboration/ For the BSIF webinar on the new standard BS 8681:2024 Personal fall protection equipment, watch… Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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HSE: Taylor Wimpey fined £800,000 after teen apprentice injured on site

HSE: Taylor Wimpey fined £800,000 after teen apprentice injured on site

A housebuilder has been fined £800,000 after a teen apprentice was injured when a temporary stairwell covering collapsed. Charlie Marsh, 17, had been working as a contractor on a Taylor Wimpey UK Limited site as it built around 450 new homes on its Meadfields site in Weston-Super-Mare. The apprentice bricklayer, from Whitchurch in Bristol, was less than 12 months into his career when the incident happened. An investigator for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said the teen was lucky to escape serious injury. On 22 August 2023 Charlie had been loading concrete blocks onto the temporary flooring on the first floor of one of the newly built homes. The blocks were being loaded into stacks of between 10 and 20, one of which was on or near to a temporary stairwell covering. This was a large area covered with a timber sheet material laid over joists – both of which would be later removed to install the staircase. However, the area collapsed, causing Charlie and around 20kg of the concrete blocks to fall more than two metres to the ground below. He sustained injuries to his fingers, hand, wrist and shoulder. The subsequent HSE investigation found that the joists under the timber sheet material should have been back propped. This was mentioned a number of times in Taylor Wimpey’s own health and safety manual for the site, however, it had been missed on this particular plot. Had suitably designed back propping been used, it is unlikely the incident would have occurred. Taylor Wimpey UK Limited pleaded guilty to breaching section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £800,000 and ordered to pay £6,240.25 costs with a £2000 victim surcharge at the North Somerset Magistrates’ Court on 3 June 2025. HSE inspector Derek Mclauchlan said “Everyone working in construction has a responsibility to ensure people are safe. “Any work involving structural stability is potentially high risk and proper planning and implementation should be given. “This incident could have been avoided had the right steps been taken. “The failures of Taylor Wimpey resulted in a young man at the very beginning of his career being injured. Charlie was lucky those injuries were not far more serious. “Lessons should be learned.” This HSE prosecution was brought by HSE Enforcement Lawyer Samantha Tiger and Paralegal Officer Rebecca Withell. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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McAleer & Rushe, MRP, and VITA Group have topped out a new £85 million PBSA development in Birmingham

McAleer & Rushe, MRP, and VITA Group have topped out a new £85 million PBSA development in Birmingham

McAleer & Rushe, MRP, and Vita Group have celebrated a significant construction milestone with the topping out of their new £85 million purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) development on Gough Street, Birmingham. The landmark scheme, constructed by design & build contractor McAleer & Rushe, is being developed by MRP under a forward funding agreement with urban regeneration specialist, Vita Group. The topping out ceremony brought together key stakeholders and guests to celebrate this significant stage of progress. Once complete, the development will provide 540 premium Vita Student studio apartments across two towers of 10 and 29 storeys. Architecturally distinctive, the scheme is defined by a striking zig-zag façade and a modern design approach with sustainability at its core. Residents will benefit from an exceptional range of communal amenities, including private dining rooms, a gym, basketball court, co-study spaces, a social hub, and games rooms, creating a vibrant student living environment. This development is among a series of collaborations between McAleer & Rushe and Vita Group, including the award-winning Bruce StreetschemeinBelfast, developed by MRP, as well as ongoing projects at NewWaverley in EdinburghandIndia Street in Glasgow. Designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, the scheme places a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Features include more than 200 cycle parking spaces, multiple outdoor terraces, and a rooftop area on level 29. Additionally, a landscaped roof terrace on level 10 will incorporate a bio-green garden with wildflower beds, crushed stone piles, and stacked tree stems to promote biodiversity and create habitats for urban wildlife. Centrally located on Gough Street, near Suffolk Street Queensway, the scheme features excellent connectivity, with Birmingham New Street Station, The Mailbox, and The Cube within walking distance, making it highly attractive to students with easy access to local universities and amenities. McAleer & Rushe recently achieved an ‘Outstanding’ Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) score of 47, including two best practice points, recognising excellence in site management, community engagement, and sustainability. The project remains on track for completion in Summer 2026, ready for occupation by students for the 2026/2027 academic year. Stephen Surphlis, Managing Director at MRP said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the magnificent milestone of the Vita Student, Gough Street topping out. This scheme reflects MRP’s commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable spaces that support the city’s ambition and support Birmingham’s growing student population with first-class housing.” Mark Diamond, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe, commented: “We are delighted to celebrate the topping out of Vita Gough Street, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of this exceptional purpose-built student accommodation scheme in Birmingham. Reaching this key achievement is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of our project team, partners, and supply chain, whose collective efforts continue to drive the project forward. “We’re proud to be playing a central role in bringing to life a vibrant living environment that meets the growing demand for high-quality student accommodation in the city. As we move toward completion in Summer 2026, we remain committed to delivering the development to the highest standards, with a strong focus on safety, quality, and sustainability.” Max Bielby, Chief Operating Officer, Vita Group commented: “Birmingham has always been an important city for Vita Group, and the topping out of our latest development on Gough Street marks a proud moment in deepening our connection in the city. Following the success of Vita Student Pebble Mill, we’re excited to expand our presence in a city known for its vibrant student population and world-renowned universities. This new scheme is also a reflection of our strong and trusted partnership with McAleer & Rushe, with whom we continue to deliver high-quality, design-led student residences across the UK. Together, we’re creating exceptional living environments that prioritise wellbeing, sustainability, and a true sense of community for the staff and students there.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Panattoni agrees strategic acquisition of new Milton Keynes site

Panattoni agrees strategic acquisition of new Milton Keynes site

Panattoni, the largest industrial real estate developer in Europe, has strengthened its commitment to Milton Keynes with an agreement to acquire a prime 5-acre site, marking the next phase of its strategic expansion in the region. The new development, Panattoni Milton Keynes 100, will be a single-unit of 100,000 sq ft and bring additional high-quality, speculative industrial space to the market.  A detailed planning application will be submitted in Q2 2025, with Panattoni’s £30 million commitment into the project to further enhance its logistics hubs in Milton Keynes. The site, acquired from owner-occupier Tesa UK Ltd, will be redeveloped following the demolition of the existing industrial unit.   This latest prime UK acquisition provides tenants easy with access across the country. The site complements the ongoing development at Panattoni Park Milton Keynes less than one mile away, where we are delivering two large-scale units to the Southern M1 market.  Already underway and committed, Panattoni Park Milton Keynes comprises of two speculative units; 343,666 sq ft which is now complete and ready for tenant fit-out, while the 448,366 sq ft unit is scheduled for completion in May 2025. Both units will achieve a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rating and net zero carbon in construction, reflecting Panattoni’s focus on sustainability. Featuring 18m clear internal height, 55m service yards, and extensive loading capabilities, these buildings offer future occupiers best-in-class facilities in a prime logistics location near Junction 14 of the M1.   James Watson, Head of Development, Southern England & London at Panattoni commented: “Our latest acquisition underlines our long-term commitment to Milton Keynes and our confidence in the region’s industrial and logistics market. With the completion of the new logistics hub, Panattoni Park Milton Keynes, we wanted to continue to expand our speculative offering, giving tenants flexible size options for businesses to move and grow in the region. Panattoni is offering clients modern, high-quality, sustainable space in a prime location. This investment aligns with our strategy to deliver best-in-class facilities to meet occupier demand. We look forward to bringing forward the planning and working with the community even further.”  Panattoni was advised by Savills on the acquisition.  For further details on Panattoni’s developments in Milton Keynes, visit www.panattoni.co.uk/our-properties Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Willmott Dixon Lands Second Major Project with Queen Mary University

Willmott Dixon Lands Second Major Project with Queen Mary University

Willmott Dixon has been appointed to deliver a £48.8 million transformation of Queen Mary University of London’s School of Business & Management — marking the construction firm’s second major project for the university within a year. Located in Tower Hamlets, the redevelopment will see a brand-new, seven-storey academic building designed by Nicholas Hare Architects take the place of the current facility, which is no longer considered fit for purpose. The 6,700-square-metre scheme will also enhance the surrounding public realm, featuring new landscaped terraces and dedicated green spaces for students and staff alike. Completion is scheduled for 2027. This project follows closely on the heels of Willmott Dixon’s earlier commission in 2024 to extend the Informatics & Technology Learning building in Bethnal Green. That scheme involves a full retrofit and the addition of two extra storeys to the existing structure. Richard Poulter, managing director for Willmott Dixon in the South, commented: “Working with Queen Mary University London on both these projects presents a fantastic opportunity to deliver high-quality spaces through close collaboration. These schemes will provide long-lasting benefits for the university community.” Professor Colin Bailey, Principal of Queen Mary University of London, added: “This project represents more than just bricks and mortar. It is a bold investment in our academic future: a tangible statement of our commitment to excellence in education, research, and innovation. It will help us deliver on our mission of opening the doors of opportunity, transforming lives, addressing inequalities, and making new discoveries.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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National Federation of Roofing Contractors Welcomes Housebuilding Boost to Provide High-Quality Homes Across UK

National Federation of Roofing Contractors Welcomes Housebuilding Boost to Provide High-Quality Homes Across UK

NFRC (The National Federation of Roofing Contractors) welcomes the government’s announcements in its Spending Review, particularly the commitment to significantly increase funding for the Affordable Homes Programme. The intention to unlock greater private investment in housebuilding through Homes England is also a positive step, provided it is implemented effectively.  The allocation of nearly £2.3bn a year to fix crumbling classrooms and a further £2.4bn to rebuild 500 schools presents a significant opportunity for NFRC members to contribute high-quality work to vital public infrastructure.  In addition, the pledge of up to £1.2 billion per year in skills training for young people by the end of the Parliament is a critical investment. It will help ensure a pipeline of trained professionals is in place to deliver these ambitious projects.  NFRC Director of Membership, Richard Miller, said:  “It’s encouraging to see the Government making a strong commitment to social and affordable housing at a time when difficult decisions are being made across the board.  “A safe, well-built home is the foundation for a stable life, and this investment will play a key role in making more of these homes available to those who need them.  “To ensure this funding delivers real value, it is essential that homes are constructed to a high standard, using quality products and contractors whose workforce is demonstrably skilled.  “This is particularly important for roofing, especially now that solar panels will be the default on all new homes under the Future Homes Standard. That policy will only work if solar systems are properly designed and installed by professionals with the right expertise in both PV technology and roofing.”  NFRC urges the Government to avoid undermining the impact of these investments through further tax increases on construction businesses in the upcoming Autumn Budget.  “Many roofing businesses are already under pressure from rising employment costs,” Miller added. “In our most recent Spring survey, cost of employment was the most cited challenge facing roofing businesses, with 76% of responding Members highlighting the issue. Construction insolvencies remain high, and any further financial strain could put the Government’s housing ambitions at risk, regardless of how much funding is committed.”  NFRC eagerly anticipates the forthcoming publication of the government’s ten-year infrastructure strategy. A clear and reliable pipeline of work will be essential to ensure that the promised funding can be delivered effectively and translated into tangible outcomes on the ground.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Planning capacity must match Government housing plans, warns RTPI

Planning capacity must match Government housing plans, warns RTPI

The Government’s £39 billion Affordable Homes Programme signals a long-term approach to tackling the housing crisis. However, the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) warns that, without sufficient planning capacity and access to specialist training, the delivery of sustainable, community-focused places remains at risk. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “The Government has shown a serious commitment to addressing the housing crisis with long-term investment to deliver the homes communities across the UK urgently need. However, planning must be recognised not only as a key policy lever but also as a profession that requires sustained investment to help achieve these commitments. “While the overall increase in local authority core spending power is welcome, it does not guarantee the funding needed for planning services. Targeted investment in planning teams is essential to meet growing demand and deliver on national priorities. “We support the strong focus on education and training, but the key issues around resourcing are only exacerbated by the restriction of funding for Level 7 Apprenticeships to those aged 16 – 21. This will result in the loss of up to 200 future planners a year from RTPI-accredited universities. “With the profession already facing severe skills shortages, it is vital that access to advanced and specialist training, including postgraduate routes, remains open to both new entrants and those looking to upskill.” The RTPI also highlighted the importance of ensuring funding settlements for devolved governments translate into meaningful investment in planning, particularly in areas like Scotland and Wales where local authority capacity is under severe strain. The Institute welcomes the significant investment in public service delivery in Northern Ireland. But notes that infrastructure investment across the nations must also be matched by planning resource if delivery goals are to be achieved. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CIHT reacts to governmental Spending Review - Funding for transport announced

CIHT reacts to governmental Spending Review – Funding for transport announced

Yesterday, Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP, delivered the outcome of Phase 2 of the government’s Spending Review.  The government announced in Autumn 2024, that the forthcoming Spending Review in 2025 will set government departmental resource budgets for three years and capital budgets for five years, with reviews every two years. CIHT will be providing a more detailed analysis in the coming days.  Sue Percy CBE, Chief Executive, CIHT said: “CIHT welcomes the commitment to transport spend outlined today by the Chancellor. The Spending Review, shows that the government understands the vital role that highways, transport and infrastructure plays in the UK economy.” “The announcement of funding to support the key areas of transport decarbonisation, public transport, climate resilience and highway maintenance echo many of CIHT’s recent submissions to government. The reference to an increase in funding for apprenticeships and training to reach an extra £1.2 billion per annum by 2029 is a welcome emphasis on the need to support the future skills of the sector.”  “CIHT will be working closely with the government to support these initiatives and more in the run-up to the forthcoming 10-year infrastructure strategy.” The following includes some of the highlights CIHT welcomes from the Spending Review that CIHT called for, including: – £750 million per year to maintain and improve bus services, including introducing franchising pilots in areas including York and North Yorkshire and Cheshire West and Cheshire West and Chester Read CIHT on improving buses  – £2.6 billion capital investment to decarbonise transport from 2026-27 to 2029-30. This includes: – Investing £616 million to build and maintain walking and cycling infrastructure. (1) Read CIHT on making the case for active travel – £1.4 billion for the continued uptake of electric vehicles Read CIHT on electric vehicles – £400 million to support the rollout of charging infrastructure, building on the almost 80,000 public charging devices already available;  – Extending the £3 bus fare cap – due to end this year – by over a year until March 2027 Read CIHT Spending Review submission  – £4.2 billion over three years, from 2026-27 to 2028- 29 for climate resilience  – Providing £24 billion of capital funding between 2026‑27 and 2029‑30 to maintain and improve motorways and local roads across the country.  Read CIHT Unlocking the Benefits of Long-Term Funding for Local Roads – The impending publication of the government’s ‘10-Year Infrastructure Strategy’ later in June.  Further announcements that CIHT welcome include:   – Investing £2.3 billion in the Local Transport Grant over Phase 2 for local transport improvements including bus lanes, cycleways and congestion improvement measures in places outside of those areas receiving TCR settlements.    – £15.6 billion investment in total by 2031‑32 through the new Transport for City Regions (TCR) settlements to give metro mayors of some of England’s largest city regions long‑term transport settlements.  – Up to £27.8 billion capital to be invested through the National Wealth Fund (NWF), which will drive growth and create jobs across the UK in areas, including transport sectors.   – A multi-year settlement for London (TfL) of £2.2 billion of funding between 2026-27 and 2029-30 for Transport for London’s capital renewals programme.  – £1.2bn a year for training and upskilling, with a focus on creating more apprenticeship opportunities.   – Devolved governments will receive an additional £5.7 billion per year on average through the operation of the Barnett formula. This translates as £52bn for Scotland, £23bn for Wales, and £21bn for Northern Ireland.  The full government Spending Review Document is available to read here.  CIHT looks forward to continuing to work with HM Treasury, the Department for Transport, and other government departments to ensure that the UK’s transport network is fit for all our futures.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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