NEWS IN NUMBERS
The FMB commits to Conflict Avoidance Pledge
40,000 The number of homes to be built on disused railway land. Source: National Federation of Builders
T
costs of disputes through better conflict management. Conflict Avoidance Coalition President Len Bunton, said: “I am
he FMB has added its name to a campaign for collaborative working by signing the Conflict Avoidance Pledge (CAP).
delighted that the FMB has re-signed the Conflict Avoidance Pledge and to support the work of the coalition. This is an excellent example of collaboration aimed at reducing the number of disputes which harm the FMB’s members and damage the reputation of the construction industry.”
The pledge originated from the Conflict Avoidance Coalition which brings together more than 100 leading organisations including public bodies, contractors, consultants, and professional institutions that are united in a shared mission: to reduce the financial, reputational, and relational
£26.70 The hourly rate to be paid to top tier electrical technicians working in London’s transport sector after a 3.95% increase comes into force in January 2026. Source: Unite the Union
W est Lothian Council has given the go- ahead for a new battery energy storage system (BESS) near Bathgate, marking the first planning consent secured by renewable energy firm Galileo Empower. Located on Middlerigg Farm, beside the A801 between Bathgate and Armadale, the 49.9MW facility will store excess electricity when demand is low and discharge it back into the grid during peak periods. The goal is to stabilise the electricity network and enhance the efficiency of renewable energy use. “This type of infrastructure is essential as we transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources,” said Laura Petrie, Project Manager Battery boost
at Galileo Empower. She noted the
system’s potential to “play a critical
role in tackling climate change and supporting Scotland to achieve its net-zero target.” Petrie also emphasised the local impact of the development, pointing to job creation, skill- building opportunities, and a planned community benefit fund. “We are confident that this project will bring considerable economic and environmental benefits to West Lothian,” she said. “We look forward to continuing to engage with the Council and local communities as we progress the consented project.”
7% The percentage by which private housing output is forecast to grow in 2026.
Source: Construction Products Association
9
Master Builder
www.fmb.org.uk
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker