Daily News: 13/02/2025
The UK government has announced its largest house building initiative since the post-war era, with over 100 sites under consideration. Plans include 20,000 homes with schools and healthcare, plus efforts to unlock 700,000 more homes across 350 sites by tackling development barriers. GOV.UK
Housing Ombudsman ruled against Arun District Council five times in three months, with five more judgements going against the council at the end of last year. Sussex World
Social landlords must enhance data collection to maximise social value, as emphasised at the CIH South West conference, ensuring new schemes are tailored to community needs. Meanwhile, securing private funding for rural housing in the South West remains challenging, with Octopus Investment’s director highlighting difficulties in attracting investors for both general needs and supported housing. Housing Today (register), Housing Today (register)
Many households in Wales are stuck in unsuitable temporary accommodation due to a severe shortage of social housing and slow new home delivery. Repurposing unused faith-owned spaces could provide a vital solution, offering secure and affordable homes to those in need. Bevan Foundation
Torsion Construction has doubled its revenue post-restructure, maintaining strong finances. In contrast, BAM Construction faces a £40m loss from Manchester Co-op Live delays. Additionally, over 150 jobs are lost as J S Wright and Wright Maintenance enter administration. Construction Wave, Construction Enquirer, Construction Enquirer
The Government has allocated an additional £2 million to accelerate Building Safety Regulator approvals for high-rise projects, aiming to streamline safety compliance. Alongside this, a new cladding remediation enforcement unit is being established within the regulator to expedite fixes on high-risk buildings, ensuring swifter action on critical safety issues. Construction Enquirer, Housing Today (register)
Construction output in Great Britain saw a modest 0.5% increase in Q4 2024 compared to Q3, driven entirely by a 1.2% rise in new work, while repair and maintenance declined by 0.4%. This highlights a continued focus on new developments despite a slowdown in refurbishment projects. Office for National Statistics
Hallam Land has won an appeal for 112 homes in Yalding, Maidstone, bolstering its land promotion strategy. A 1,200-home masterplan for Bristol’s Cumberland Basin has been unveiled, while Liverpool’s 401-home Metalworks scheme nears approval. At the same time, over 750 residents oppose 400 homes in Wallingford, and campaigners challenge a 330-home plan in Frome, citing a lack of local benefits. Insider Media, Bristol Live, Place North West, This is Oxfordshire,and Somerset Live