Insights
-
Circular construction is becoming a commercial and environmental priority for refurbishment. Luca Sidoli, sustainability manager at Pexhurst, considers how SME contractors can move beyond linear waste models, support clients with reuse strategies, and make circularity more practical across the refurbishment sector.
-
UK construction activity has fallen to a six-year low point. Housebuilding remained the weakest segment as new orders, employment, and confidence declined in May.
-
COWI has acquired PUNCH to expand Irish engineering capacity significantly. The deal strengthens buildings, infrastructure, sustainability, BIM, and energy engineering capability.
-
CG Fry has reported lower profit as regulatory costs rise. The south-west housebuilder cited higher compliance costs and a flat housing market.
-
CITB has revoked 511 fraudulent safety test results after sentencing. The case involved organised cheating linked to an Essex construction test centre.
-
Gateway 2 approvals are improving, but certainty remains commercially critical. Craig Robertson, director at MEP and sustainability consultancy Wallace Whittle, explains why transparent client communication, robust technical detail, and a built-as-drawn mindset matter as projects move through Gateways 2 and 3.
-
Cladding choices are being reshaped by sustainability, retrofit demand, and climate risk. Lisa Grosse, brand manager at Cedral UK, examines survey findings on refurbishment, modular construction, façade design, and the barriers to long-term sustainable housebuilding.
-
Eleco and SymTerra have linked programmes with site records digitally. The integration connects Asta planning data with daily evidence, inspections, progress updates, delays, and commercial events captured on site.
-
CITB grant figures show continued support for construction apprentices nationwide. The 2025–26 figures include £68m in apprenticeship grants and support for more than 10,000 employers.
-
London now ranks second globally for high-specification office fit-out costs. Turner & Townsend’s data puts the capital just behind New York for premium workplace delivery.