The UK is now officially in a recession, with some speculating it could be the deepest for many years. The government’s commitment to “Build build build” offers some relief and hope for the construction and FM sectors and the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Roadmap to Recovery provides a platform for clear and consistent dialogue with ministers.
The government promises that landmark reforms will speed up and modernise the outdated planning system and get the country building. Benefits should include:
- valued green spaces will be protected for future generations, with more building on brownfield land;
- the building of beautiful homes with communities at heart of new planning system; and
- 30% discount through First Homes, with an emphasis on key workers.
Earlier this month, the £2billion Green Homes Grants scheme will give over 600,000 homeowners in England up to £10,000 to install insulation, heat pumps, draft proofing and more to help households cut energy bills.
Tradespeople are urged to sign up for TrustMark accreditation in drive to support over 100,000 jobs through a new energy efficiency scheme. Strict accreditation rules for tradespeople involved in the scheme give households confidence that improvements to their homes will be of the highest quality.
As the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, SAEMA (Specialist Access and Engineering Maintenance Association) is a keen observer of the latest developments and initiatives from the government post-COVID-19.
SAEMA’s aims include adherence to safe and best practice for the provision of access to buildings and other structures for the purposes of cleaning and maintenance; and co-operating with other organisations, specialist bodies and institutions involved in the provision and maintenance of façade access systems and equipment.
The ‘new normal’ has brought a wave of new challenges as well as opportunities and SAEMA exists to give its support individuals and organisations. Both of the initiatives discussed above have the potential to reverse the slow-down caused by COVID-19 and SAEMA is a keen supporter.