In April, IWFM Academy were excited to launch the third episode of our Tech Survival Guide at the Workplace Event, plus announce an exclusive offer to save money by purchasing the full guide. It’s perfect for workplace and facilities management (WFM) professionals who feel overwhelmed by the pace of technological
By Thomas Roche, Secretary of Business Sprinkler Alliance A new Fire Safety: Property Protection report, published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government (MHCLG), explores the state of property protection in fire safety regulations and examines international approaches to safeguarding buildings from fire damage. While the findings highlight
INDUSTRY leaders came together in April at Ironmonger’s Hall in London for Miller Knight’s Building Safety Forum 2025 – a landmark event driving forward the conversation on regulation, responsibility and reform in the built environment. Hosted by the remediation contractor in partnership with TFT and BB7, the forum brought together experts,
A new study from Oscar Acoustics, Great Britain’s specialists in architectural acoustic finishes, highlights a growing workplace challenge: Excessive office noise is undermining productivity, employee well-being, and the ‘Great Return to the Office.’ Noise has become a major deterrent for employees returning to in-office work. The push to end hybrid working
Gateway 2 is a crucial regulatory checkpoint introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, applying to higher-risk buildings, typically those over eighteen metres tall or with seven or more storeys and containing at least two residential units. Compliance is required before construction begins, meaning no work can legally start until
DBR (London) Limited (DBR), one of the UK’s leading heritage contractors, announces it has been granted a Royal Warrant by Appointment to His Majesty the King, recognising its longstanding provision of historic building conservation services to the Royal Household. For centuries, Royal Warrants have been granted to companies that demonstrate
Cast Consultancy, a leader in modernising construction practices, and KOPE, the pioneering platform for modern construction, are excited to announce an expanded strategic partnership aimed at improving the standards of trust and quality in the construction industry. The partnership leverages Cast’s industry expertise and KOPE’s innovative platform to introduce a
MILLER Knight has been appointed to the communities and housing investment consortium (CHIC) fire and building safety framework, reinforcing and solidifying the contractor’s reputation in remedial fire protection and building safety compliance. Awarded by CHIC, a not-for-profit organisation, the framework provides a robust procurement route for fire safety and compliance works
A British tool manufacturer that has been crafting high-quality soft-faced hammers for over a century is proving that legacy craftsmanship remains a vital force in global industry. West Midlands-based Made in Britain member, Thor Hammer, which exports 44% of its products to 80 countries, supplies sectors including automotive, aerospace, and
Developers are facing construction delays of more than 18 months and additional costs of up to £49,000 per week due to safety regulations such as the Building Safety Act (BSA), according to new data from the Purposeful Finance Commission (PFC). A report published today by the PFC highlights how the
In April, IWFM Academy were excited to launch the third episode of our Tech Survival Guide at the Workplace Event, plus announce an exclusive offer to save money by purchasing the full guide. It’s perfect for workplace and facilities management (WFM) professionals who feel overwhelmed by the pace of technological change and are looking for practical, digestible insights to enhance their tech proficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned professional aiming to stay current or someone new to the field seeking foundational knowledge, the bitesize, 20-minute episodes provide an accessible way to quickly grasp essential tech skills and confidently integrate new tools into your daily workflow. Why professionals need CPD in relation to technology IWFM and sector leaders have highlighted the need for workplace and facilities management (WFM) professionals to get to grips with evolving standards in today’s landscape, such as the recent UK Information Management Initiative. Episode three explores ISO 19650, its practical use in workplace data and how to leverage data for strategic gains. It covers improving data accuracy, efficiency and decision-making through information management and standards. Key topics include: Click here to learn more, access each episode and purchase the entire guide with our exclusive offer. Looking ahead: Attend upcoming webinars with IWFM’s Technology Special Interest Group (SIG), including: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
By Thomas Roche, Secretary of Business Sprinkler Alliance A new Fire Safety: Property Protection report, published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government (MHCLG), explores the state of property protection in fire safety regulations and examines international approaches to safeguarding buildings from fire damage. While the findings highlight significant issues and areas for improvement, the Business Sprinkler Alliance (BSA) questions whether the government’s actions thus far can be considered a regulatory success for property protection. The report forms part of the government’s wider response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety, which followed the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017. While the core focus of the regulations has always been life safety, a public call for evidence revealed growing concerns that building and property protection were being neglected. In response, this review was commissioned to explore how fire safety regulations could better reduce property damage, drawing on international examples and a structured assessment of literature, codes, and interviews with key stakeholders. Property protection overlooked The report states clearly that fire safety regulations in England and Wales prioritise life safety, with property protection largely absent from the statutory framework. It notes that “most of the guidelines designed specifically to protect buildings and property from fire are non-statutory in nature,” meaning they are voluntary or insurance-driven rather than embedded in legislation. It further concludes that “there is no empirical evidence to indicate the extent to which property protection is achieved through life safety,” underscoring the need for explicit protection measures within regulations themselves. Sprinklers proved most effective Sprinklers were consistently identified throughout the review as the most effective active fire protection system. According to the report, “sprinklers are especially prominent in literature about property protection and building resilience,” with both academic research and stakeholder input highlighting their unmatched role in containing and extinguishing fires. It also states that “research into the fire resilience of buildings tends to emphasise sprinklers as the primary method of protecting buildings from fire,” a finding that strengthens the Business Sprinkler Alliance’s longstanding advocacy for wider sprinkler adoption across UK buildings. Stricter fire protection for industrial buildings overseas The review highlights that warehouses and industrial facilities in countries such as the USA, Sweden, and Germany are subject to more rigorous fire protection requirements than in England. The report points out that “sprinklers are almost always mandatory” in these countries and that “warehouse size thresholds, which place limits on the size of un-sprinklered warehouses, are generally much lower than in England.” These stricter requirements reflect an international recognition of the high economic and operational risks posed by industrial fires which is an approach the UK has yet to replicate Prioritising sustainability over resilience As the UK construction sector embraces sustainability, the review warns that new methods may compromise fire resilience. It explains that “the drive to construct ‘green’ buildings with low embodied carbon has the potential to conflict with fire safety and resilience,” particularly in relation to mass timber and modular construction. These methods, it states, have “critical vulnerabilities,” including concealed cavities that can accelerate fire spread and the use of combustible materials that are not adequately addressed in current regulations. Schools and heritage buildings at risk The review found that in countries like Scotland and New Zealand, stricter fire protection requirements for schools are in place specifically to minimise disruption and safeguard their educational function. It notes that “stricter requirements reflect the fact that schools are often seen as important service providing-buildings and community resources.” The report also observes that historic buildings, despite their cultural value, are rarely treated differently in regulation and often receive “fire safety provisions… no different to domestic buildings.” In contrast, countries like the USA and Germany have developed tailored fire safety guidance for heritage sites that balances protection with preservation. A clear case for change In response to the findings, the Business Sprinkler Alliance is urging policymakers to broaden the scope of fire regulations to explicitly include property protection and to consider the wider adoption of automatic sprinklers as a proven, effective measure. “Fires don’t just threaten lives, they destroy vital community assets, commercial operations, and our built heritage,” said Iain Cox, Chair of the Business Sprinkler Alliance. “This report validates what we’ve been saying for years that sprinklers are a cornerstone of resilience, and we must look at the bigger picture and do more to embed property protection in UK fire safety regulation. The concentration in UK fire regulation on life safety has meant that a completely destroyed building – be it a school, a factory or a historic building – was deemed a success if no lives were lost or injuries suffered. The consequent effect on children’s education, unemployment and our heritage were never taken into account. Hopefully, now, they will.” For more information about the BSA visit the www.business-sprinkler-alliance.org Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
INDUSTRY leaders came together in April at Ironmonger’s Hall in London for Miller Knight’s Building Safety Forum 2025 – a landmark event driving forward the conversation on regulation, responsibility and reform in the built environment. Hosted by the remediation contractor in partnership with TFT and BB7, the forum brought together experts, regulators and property professionals to examine the pressing challenges facing the construction and fire safety sectors. Chaired by Dame Judith Hackitt DBE, the event shone a spotlight on the cultural and regulatory shifts still required to meet the ambitions set out in her ‘Building a Safer Future’ report. In her keynote, Dame Judith reiterated the need for “a long-term mindset” and challenged professionals to take ownership at every level, from construction to facilities management. “We are only just beginning to uncover the challenges posed by the new regulatory system – especially during the occupation phase,” she said. “But reform is not optional. Responsibility rests with all of us to be intelligent, informed and proactive in making the right safety decisions for the buildings we create and manage.” A standout moment came as Dame Judith revealed that the Building Control Review Panel, which she now chairs, will issue its recommendations by the end of 2025. The review is exploring whether building control functions should only be performed by those free from commercial interest – a move set to reshape the industry’s current dual-path system. Speaking about the green paper on construction product regulation, Dame Judith urged delegates to get involved: “Unless we get this fixed, we’re still standing on thin ice. We need better product assurance, better testing, and we need to be bold enough to demand it.” The event featured a packed agenda including panel discussions with leading safety consultants, fire engineers and asset managers. Delegates shared real-world challenges, from poor record-keeping to inconsistent product data, and called for better collaboration across the supply chain. Attendee Dominic Smith, head of CDM services at TFT, commented: “This forum is rare in the sense that it brings the full industry together – from fire engineers to construction clients – with a shared purpose. We have over 70 higher-risk buildings in our portfolio, and events like this help us stay ahead of change and do the right thing by our residents.” In closing the event, Matthew Flower, managing director at Miller Knight, said: “This forum is about more than compliance – it’s about collective responsibility. We’re here to lead by example, push for real change and help others do the same. From contractors and consultants to building owners, everyone has a part to play in building a safer future. This is only the beginning.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new study from Oscar Acoustics, Great Britain’s specialists in architectural acoustic finishes, highlights a growing workplace challenge: Excessive office noise is undermining productivity, employee well-being, and the ‘Great Return to the Office.’ Noise has become a major deterrent for employees returning to in-office work. The push to end hybrid working is gaining momentum, with corporate giants like Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, and Barclays[1] leading the charge and setting the tone for what some call “the great return.” Yet, despite efforts by employers to improve office environments, more than half (56%) of UK office workers still describe their workplaces as noisy, and fewer than one in three believe their surroundings fully support their productivity. The findings, based on a survey of 2,000 UK business professionals, reveal the impact of poor acoustic design on employee satisfaction and productivity: The data also reflects a generational divide: Two in three employees aged 25-34 say they would quit if forced to return to full-time office work, while just 1 in 10 Gen Z workers actively prefer office hours. A productivity problem ignoredDespite the global focus on workplace well-being, the percentage of employees who describe their office as noisy has remained stubbornly high—from 59% in 2019 (Oscar Acoustics, Noisy Workspace, 2019) to 56% in 2025. Noise-related productivity issues are also worsening: In 2023, 81% of employees reported that office noise affected their performance, up sharply from 41% in 2022. To cope, employees are increasingly turning to noise-blocking methods, including headphones, with usage nearly doubling from 23% in 2022 to 41% in 2025. While effective in the short term, this reduces collaboration and team cohesion, stifling opportunities for spontaneous learning and innovation, especially for junior colleagues who are in a stage of their careers requiring mentorship and on-the-job coaching. Rob Smith, Director, tp bennett, outlined: “There needs to be more logic in how offices are designed, ensuring a seamless transition from quieter zones to vibrant, high-energy areas. When people do find themselves in those busier environments, there should be easily accessible refuge spaces. This is where we can truly leverage acoustics and lighting to create retreats that offer relief when the noise becomes overwhelming.” It’s all in the designAcoustic issues continue to be overlooked in office design despite the growing evidence of their impact. Only 29% of workers feel their office acoustics meet their needs, with the same number revealing that implementing acoustic solutions would improve their productivity. This aligns with reports from architects highlighting a lack of focus on sound management in project briefs. Ben Hancock, Managing Director of Oscar Acoustics, commented: “Productivity in the UK is already under scrutiny, with the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) reporting declines in Q1 2025[2] and EY revising GDP growth forecasts down to 1%[3]. Employers, architects, and developers cannot afford to treat acoustics as an afterthought. Investing in sound management isn’t just a matter of employee well-being—it’s a strategic priority for business success.” Derek Clements-Croome, Emeritus Professor at the University of Reading, said “The landscape is changing. By incorporating features like restoration pods, for example, we’re acknowledging that taking breaks is not only acceptable but beneficial for the brain. It doesn’t mean you’re unproductive; quite the opposite, as creative thoughts can occur at any moment in any place. You’re often more productive when you give your brain the respect it deserves.” Oscar Acoustics calls on companies to prioritise workplace acoustics as part of their return-to-work strategy, empowering employees to thrive in environments designed for both productivity and collaboration. To find out more about Oscar Acoustics’ study, download their 2025 Whitepaper ‘Shaping Spaces for The Great Return to the Office,’ here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Gateway 2 is a crucial regulatory checkpoint introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022, applying to higher-risk buildings, typically those over eighteen metres tall or with seven or more storeys and containing at least two residential units. Compliance is required before construction begins, meaning no work can legally start until the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has reviewed and approved a detailed building control application. This application must demonstrate that the building’s design meets all relevant Building Regulations and properly considers fire safety and structural safety risks. The building control application submitted at the Gateway 2 stage is much more thorough than traditional applications. It requires developers to submit full design documentation, including plans, calculations, and specifications, along with a fire and emergency file and evidence that competent professionals are overseeing the project. Developers must also show how they will maintain the ‘Golden Thread’ which is a clear, up-to-date record of safety information applicable throughout the building’s life cycle. The application must also set out how any design changes during construction will be managed and reported to the regulator. The introduction of Gateway 2 is part of a wider push to improve building safety following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, ensuring safety is prioritised from the very start of construction. By requiring a ‘stop/go’ decision point before work can begin, Gateway 2 aims to prevent unsafe designs from progressing into construction, increasing accountability and ensuring higher standards across the industry. This stricter process is designed to reduce safety risks during both construction and the eventual occupation of the building. Gateway 2 is part of a staged process, the three gateways in the new system are: Gateway 1 – Pre-Planning: Considering safety risks at the planning application stage. Gateway 2 – Pre-Construction: Ensuring the design is safe before building starts. (this is where Gateway 2 compliance applies). Gateway 3 – Post-Construction: A final check before the building is occupied. Aluprof UK has demonstrated a strong commitment to aligning with the Building Safety Act’s requirements, particularly concerning Gateway 2 approvals. Its broad range of high performance façade solutions, all 3rd party tested to the relevant standards makes Aluprof the ideal partner. In addition their major projects team collaborates closely with specialist façade contractors to ensure that all necessary supporting documentation and compliance measures are meticulously prepared for submission to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). This proactive approach is essential, especially in light of recent challenges faced by the BSR, such as delays in processing Gateway 2 applications due to an outsourced delivery model and a shortage of in-house technical expertise. Aluprof’s vertical integration benefits specifiers by ensuring consistent product quality, streamlined supply chains, and enhanced technical support. With in-house system design, manufacturing, and testing, Aluprof delivers high-performance aluminium systems that meet stringent UK and EU building regulations, including Gateway 2 requirements under the Building Safety Act. This integrated approach allows for greater customisation, faster lead times, and improved cost efficiency, giving specifiers confidence in project timelines and compliance. Additionally, direct collaboration with Aluprof’s experts ensures tailored solutions that align with architectural intent while enhancing sustainability and energy efficiency. UK-based facade specialists, Century Facades, in conjunction with the team at Aluprof UK, have recently confirmed that the Gateway 2 application for the Devonshire Place project in London is complete. The validation checks have recently been conducted and the application has been determined to be valid, however, the final decision will be made within the statutory timelines unless an extension of time is agreed. Marcin Bara, Design Director at Century Facades takes up the story: “In the context of UK construction industry, Gateway 2 focuses on ensuring compliance with the functional requirements of the Building Regulations and forms a “hold point” between the design and construction phases. It is crucial for a facade specialist contractor to work closely with the facade system supplier and vice versa to align on design intricacies, material specifications, and safety requirements. This collaboration must be based on trust and true partnership as only this ensures that the facade would not only meet aesthetic criteria but also adheres to performance and safety standards mandated by current Building Regulations via Gateway processes. “Effective communication and coordination between the contractor and supplier help in identifying potential issues early, optimising resource use, and ensuring the facade system contributes to the building’s overall compliance, sustainability, and safety objectives. This is where key partners such as Aluprof can work as an extension arm to our competent and fully qualified in-house Design and Engineering Teams to ensure the application produced for Gateway 2 is of the highest possible standards. “It is crucial for the system supplier to offer tailored approach to this new approval regime, so that their offer and service provided is project specific and matches our requirements as a specialist facade contractor fully. This is where our close partners such as Aluprof can play a key role in producing quality submissions, meeting expectations of our Clients entirely.” Between October 1, 2023, and September 16, 2024, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) reported that they had received 1,018 Gateway 2 applications. Of these, only 146 were approved, equating to an approval rate of approximately 14%. The BSR rejected 25 applications, while the status of the remaining 847 applications was not specified. These delays have been attributed to several factors, including an unexpected surge in applications, a high number of incomplete or unclear submissions, and resource constraints within the BSR. Developers have expressed concerns that these bottlenecks are hindering essential housing projects, including student accommodations and build-to-rent homes. The BSR has acknowledged these challenges and is working to stabilise and improve the building control approval process for higher-risk buildings. They emphasise the importance of submitting clear and comprehensive applications to facilitate quicker decision-making and reduce delays. It seems there is still some confusion over the process with contractors and developers. In short, Gateway 2 compliance is about proving to the Building Safety Regulator that the design of a higher-risk building meets all safety requirements before work starts on
DBR (London) Limited (DBR), one of the UK’s leading heritage contractors, announces it has been granted a Royal Warrant by Appointment to His Majesty the King, recognising its longstanding provision of historic building conservation services to the Royal Household. For centuries, Royal Warrants have been granted to companies that demonstrate outstanding service, quality, and craftsmanship. This achievement reflects DBR’s decades-long track record of excellence, during which it has delivered numerous historic building conservation projects for the Royal Household. DBR is among the first royal warrant holders announced by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. To qualify, companies must have provided regular, direct, and high-quality services to the Royal Household for at least five years while also meeting rigorous sustainability standards. DBR’s expert team of craftspeople and project managers have worked on some of the UK’s most significant heritage sites, including Buckingham Palace and the restoration of The Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben). Their exceptional skill, precision, and commitment to quality set them apart, not only in their craftsmanship but also in their dedication to public engagement and communication. As a Royal Warrant holder, DBR has the right to display the Royal Arms, symbolising its commitment to the highest standards of historic building conservation. Commenting on the appointment, DBR’s Executive Director, Chairman & Warrant Grantee Adrian Attwood ACR, says, “Receiving this Royal Warrant is more than an honour; it’s a testament to the unwavering dedication, craftsmanship, and expertise of our entire team. We take immense pride in our role in preserving the UK’s built heritage – whether for the Royal Household, the Palace of Westminster, Blenheim Palace, or any of the historic buildings we are privileged to work on. This recognition reinforces our commitment to excellence and our mission to protect and restore the nation’s landmark assets for future generations to cherish and enjoy.” To find out more about DBR and its work conserving and upgrading some of the UK’s most treasured heritage assets click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cast Consultancy, a leader in modernising construction practices, and KOPE, the pioneering platform for modern construction, are excited to announce an expanded strategic partnership aimed at improving the standards of trust and quality in the construction industry. The partnership leverages Cast’s industry expertise and KOPE’s innovative platform to introduce a verification badge service for suppliers that creates a standardised benchmark for quality assurance. This new feature, called Verified by Cast, enables specifiers to remove the guesswork from their supplier searches and confidently build their supply chains, with the knowledge the companies they’re working with are who they say they are. Key benefits of the partnership: “We are thrilled to partner with KOPE to bring Verified by Cast to the market,” said Jeff Endean, Director at Cast Consultancy. “It aligns with our mission to drive industry change. Verified by Cast is a practical step towards providing more confidence for specifiers, and more visibility for high quality suppliers of proven build systems and product. We think Verified by Cast has a role to play in supporting collaboration and meaningful innovation, responding to the UK’s pressing need for new homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and wider infrastructure.” Charlotte Garrett, Head of Industry Strategy from KOPE added, “Our platform is designed to facilitate easier and more effective connections within the construction industry. The integration of Cast Verification will significantly improve the value we offer to both suppliers and specifiers, making KOPE Market the obvious choice for construction businesses looking for trusted, reliable partners.” The partnership marks a significant step towards improving transparency and trust in construction procurement, aligning with both companies’ commitment to supporting the growth and development of a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable construction industry. For more information about the partnership or to become a Cast Verified supplier, please visit www.cast-consultancy.com/verified. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MILLER Knight has been appointed to the communities and housing investment consortium (CHIC) fire and building safety framework, reinforcing and solidifying the contractor’s reputation in remedial fire protection and building safety compliance. Awarded by CHIC, a not-for-profit organisation, the framework provides a robust procurement route for fire safety and compliance works across the housing sector. Encompassing a wide range of critical fire remediation and building safety services, the framework offers a future-proofed solution to ensure that high-risk residential buildings adhere to the latest regulatory standards, while supporting proactive risk management at all costs. As a multi-discipline principal contractor specialising in fire remediation, refurbishment, and compliance-led construction, Miller Knight is committed to working closely with housing providers to deliver safer, more resilient environments across the UK. The appointment comes at a pivotal time for the industry, as the UK undergoes sweeping reforms following the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022. With a focus on passive fire protection, fire door installations, and compartmentation works, Miller Knight is poised to take the helm fortifying compliance with the highest safety standards. Managing director at Miller Knight, Matthew Flower, said: “We are delighted to be appointed to CHIC’s Fire & Building Safety Framework. This collaboration represents an exciting opportunity for Miller Knight to contribute to the effective delivery of crucial works and services for CHIC’s members. We look forward to delivering exceptional services and developing long lasting partnerships.” Chief executive David Dickson added: “This appointment is a testament to our team’s well-established expertise in fire safety and compliance. As we continue on a path to scale up, our focus remains on providing safe, sustainable, and high-quality solutions that contribute to the long-term resilience of buildings across the region of Midlands and beyond. “We look forward to working in partnership with CHIC and its members to help drive fire safety improvements where they are needed most.” With a proven track record of working across public and private sector projects, Miller Knight has built a reputation for delivering specialist fire remediation works in education, healthcare, blue light services, and residential buildings. Miller Knight’s inclusion on the CHIC framework reinforces its role as a trusted contractor in the sector, committed to advancing building safety, compliance, and sustainable construction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A British tool manufacturer that has been crafting high-quality soft-faced hammers for over a century is proving that legacy craftsmanship remains a vital force in global industry. West Midlands-based Made in Britain member, Thor Hammer, which exports 44% of its products to 80 countries, supplies sectors including automotive, aerospace, and industrial engineering – with clients ranging from Formula One teams to leading manufacturers worldwide. The company, which proudly displays the Made in Britain trademark on its renowned hammer range, welcomed Solihull West & Shirley MP, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, to its headquarters. The visit highlighted Thor Hammer’s commitment to British manufacturing and the importance of export-led growth for UK industry. Thor Hammer is a long-standing member ofMade in Britain, the globally recognised mark of British manufacturers. The membership organisation supports over 2,100 UK manufacturers, helping them navigate international markets, showcase British craftsmanship, and strengthen the reputation of British-made goods worldwide. Steve Mason, MD of Thor Hammer, said: “We’re not simply creating a product, we are passing on over a century of finely-honed skills and expertise to the next generation of craftsmen. We’re incredibly proud of our heritage and that’s why we’re thrilled to display our Made in Britain mark. It carries an awful lot of gravitas in the global market—which accounts for almost half (44% in 2024) of our trade.” Established in the 1920’s, Thor Hammer’s legacy is built on innovation. The company was tasked with producing soft-faced hammers and mallets for the war effort during WWII, with its dual copper and hide-faced design enabling critical infrastructure to be built in near silence. Today, Thor Hammer continues to apply this same expert craftsmanship to serve modern industries worldwide. The business is also recognised for its progressive approach to workforce management, having introduced a four-day workweek years before it became a mainstream discussion. This decision has helped retain skilled craftspeople, with more than half of its workforce serving over a decade with the company. John Pearce, CEO of Made in Britain, said: “Forged in Britain, wielded worldwide – our manufacturers, like Thor Hammer, showcase the strength of British craftsmanship. With every expertly made product, they reinforce the reputation of Made in Britain as a mark of quality, skill, and innovation on the global stage. I’m pleased to highlight their ongoing journey and congratulate the team on its growing success in the global export market.” Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst MP said: “It was excellent to meet Steve and his team at Thor Hammer in Shirley. Their products are world renowned and I am delighted they are crafted in the local economic hub of the Cranmore Business Park. “During the visit, I was taken through the production process and saw the precision engineering involved in producing the range of hammers on offer, all of which proudly carry the ‘Made In Britain’ trademark. I even had the opportunity to have a go at building my own hammer. We had a wide-ranging discussion on the challenges facing businesses as they seek to navigate the global market conditions.” The Made in Britain mark is a key asset for manufacturers like Thor Hammer, enhancing credibility in international markets where British-made goods are synonymous with quality. As UK manufacturing continues to compete on the global stage, organisations like Made in Britain work to champion the role of British businesses in driving skilled job creation, industrial growth, and export success. To learn more about Thor Hammer, visit www.thorhammer.com. To learn more about Made in Britain and its growing community of British manufacturers, visit www.madeinbritain.org. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developers are facing construction delays of more than 18 months and additional costs of up to £49,000 per week due to safety regulations such as the Building Safety Act (BSA), according to new data from the Purposeful Finance Commission (PFC). A report published today by the PFC highlights how the BSA has unintentionally caused significant setbacks in the construction sector. The independent body, which brings together public and private sector organisations, warns that the stringent regulatory process is creating major barriers to housing and infrastructure development. The report, Breaking the Cycle: Unlocking Infrastructure Investment, reveals that developers are waiting over 18 months for approvals from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) before they can even begin construction. These delays stem primarily from the three-stage ‘gateway’ process that high-risk projects must navigate to secure planning consent, construction approval, and ultimately, occupancy. Since the introduction of Gateway 2 in October 2023, the number of build-to-rent (BTR) homes reaching the detailed planning application stage has dropped by 41%, falling to just 17,315 between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The PFC argues that these regulatory delays are making many schemes financially unviable, with one developer reportedly losing up to £49,000 per week due to prolonged waiting times at Gateway 2. In December alone, the BSR received 1,502 planning applications for high-risk buildings, yet nearly half remain undecided. Of those reviewed, more than 70% have been either rejected or deemed invalid. Meanwhile, construction starts on over 800 high-rise residential projects have been delayed, with Gateway 2 approvals now taking an average of 22 weeks—almost double the original 12-week target. Tracy Blackwell, chief executive of the Pension Insurance Corporation and chair of the PFC, acknowledged the importance of regulatory oversight but criticised the lack of resources that is slowing progress. She said: “Regulators play a critical role, particularly in ensuring resident safety, but there is no excuse for them to be under-resourced and effectively stalling vital infrastructure and housing projects. The regulatory burden is strangling growth, and I’m delighted the PFC is focused on how regulation can better align with the government’s growth mission and drive investment into the economy.” The report also found that nearly half (49%) of local authorities in England have reduced spending on planning, with overall planning department budgets increasing by just 3.85% per capita between 2018 and 2022. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
