Labour’s push to a ‘big build’, must include small builders to ensure regional growth is felt across all parts of the UK, says Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to Keir Starmer’s announcement on a ‘decade of national renewal’.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said “’Big build’ is a welcome ambition for an industry that has been mired by issues for decades, resulting in small local, builders delivering fewer and fewer homes, to the detriment of local communities. The return to gentle densification, last seen in the 18th and 19th centuries has all the building blocks to help SMEs regain their share of the market, which has been dominated by a few major companies over recent years. It’s encouraging that Labour is tackling the emotive issue of the green belt, with the so called ‘grey belt’ which has restricted sensible and sustainable development for too long.”
Berry continued: “The announcement on new towns is a good idea to promote regional growth and deliver new homes, but it’s essential that local builders are part of this process. By bringing SMEs on board with new town development this will ensure high quality and diverse housing is delivered, while also creating wider benefits, like vocational skills opportunities. Coupled with Monday's announcement to reform the antiquated planning system, announced by Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves, this could all add up to a renaissance for small, local builders”.
Notes to editors
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.
The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers.
