Kings speech signals the beginning of next stage for the UK construction sector

The King’s Speech marks an important moment in any government as it sets its agenda for the next parliamentary period. For Labour, it represents their first opportunity to deliver change after a lengthy period in opposition. It was always expected that some big announcements would be made.

So what measures will be put into place that will impact construction? The direction is now clearer – particularly when combined with the new governments manifesto pledges.

Affordable housing…social value… devolution of power to the regions. Big themes and ambitious goals.

Empowering the regions

New legislation will hand the power back to local leaders who should know what is best for their areas and communities. In theory, this will create solutions more targeted to local needs, a core factor in delivering projects with tangible social impact.

This includes housing. Labour’s pledge to deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable housebuilding in a generation has the potential to change thousands of lives for the better.

The target is ambitious; 1.5m homes will be a big ask. Local authorities and housing associations will need help when it comes to procuring the services of contractors so that they can get spades in the ground as quickly as possible.

It’s an area that we’re well placed to serve, with many frameworks already in place, delivered via regional business units that understand the communities that they are active in. These frameworks are not all about new build either. And, while retrofit related policies were absent from the speech, it is imperative that we continue to improve our existing housing stock if we’re going to improve living conditions and reduce energy consumption on the route to net zero.

Keeping up with the rules

The government has also promised to extend the provisions within Awaab’s Law to private  renters. Introduced after the tragic death of Awaab Ishak, who died from exposure to mould at his socially rented home in 2020, the new Decent Homes Standard makes it easier for occupiers to request landlord action to address hazards and make homes safe.

Landlords will need a robust and responsive supply chain if they are going to be able to meet the response timescales stipulated within the legislation.

Frameworks can help here too. By design, they are created to allow clients to access approved supply chains quickly that have been vetted when it comes to expertise and price, taking a huge amount of risk out of the process.

Source - www.pbctoday.co.uk