Cut VAT on upgrading homes
Economic recovery needs local builders, says FMB THE GOVERNMENT must back local builders by bringing forward policies that support their recovery, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
This is in response to ONS data, published in mid-May, showing that construction output dropped by 5.9% in March 2020, driven by a 5.1% decrease in repair and maintenance – the key sector in which local builders operate. Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Construction makes a significant contribution to our economy, so when output falls so does the the economy. The Government’s green light for for construction sites to re-open safely in England is very positive but it’s going to be a hard slog to get activity back to where it was.” Berry concluded: “To reverse the decline in output a clear plan for recovery is needed that specifically supports local builders. Small to medium-sized (SME) construction firms operate across the country, and create local training and employment opportunities. They are central to achieving the Government’s levelling-up agenda, and can help stimulate local growth in the long-term. This should be delivered through a national retrofit programme that sets out a plan for upgrading our existing homes. This should be underpinned by a temporary cut in VAT to stimulate demand for these works.”
BARRATT RE-STARTS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES IN LEICESTERSHIRE BARRATT DEVELOPMENTS, parent company of Barratt and David Wilson Homes, has started a phased re-opening of its construction sites in Leicestershire. Initially six sites across the region will be reopened, with work being prioritised on already sold plots at advanced stages of construction. A typical street scene at Wigston Meadows Barratt Homes North Midlands will be commencing work at Wigston Meadows in Wigston, New Lubbesthorpe and City Heights in Leicester, whilst David Wilson Homes East Midlands will also re-start work at Wigston Meadows, in addition to Fleckney Fields in Fleckney and its development in Kibworth. In line with the lockdown retail regulations, the company is not reopening its sales centres or show homes yet, but will continue to look after its customers remotely. Anyone looking to buy a new home at their developments can still do so by getting in touch with Barratt and David Wilson Homes. A detailed set of working practices and protocols has been developed by Barratt and David Wilson Homes so that its construction sites can operate safely and in line with the latest guidance from Government, Public Health Authorities and the Construction Leadership Council. This includes changes to signage, site welfare facilities and compounds, site access and walkways. These measures have already successfully been implemented on one of its sites as a pilot. A nominated Social Distancing Marshal will also be present on all sites to ensure compliance and the company will provide induction, training and support for its employees and sub-contractors. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 ...>
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