AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2025 £4.25
THE MAGAZINE OF THE FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS
RETROFIT FOR PURPOSE How Marlfield Joinery & Construction transformed an old, inefficient bungalow into an impressively sustainable building
MEET THE WINNERS See who earned accolades at Master Builder Awards across the UK
FUTURE FOCUSED Why a five-year plan can help to build your business better
TO THE RESCUE How one FMB member saved a client from a rogue builder
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Contents AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2025 Industry update
Features
28 Rescuing trust Alli Gay of Bristol-based CHI Homes stepped onto a disaster site caused by rogue builders, reassuring the clients – who were out of pocket by nearly £50,000 – that the finished project would be all they wanted and more 30 Born to build Let’s applaud excellence, celebrating the winners of Master Builder Awards at recent ceremonies in Northern Ireland, Scotland and England’s Central, South West and Southern Counties regions as we cast our eyes to the national awards ceremony in September
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7 Welcome The Master Builder Awards is set to culminate with the national ceremony in September 8 News The latest headlines from the industry 14 Make your voice heard Details for the FMB’s national AGM 15 What’s up at Westminster? How the FMB and CITB are mapping out the retrofit landscape 17 Reviewing the Spring Statement It’s time for cautious optimism
Your FMB
39 Are you absolutely covered? Do not assume your business is properly insured, warns Jade Alger of FMB Insurance, as there are a number of gaps in construction insurance that could put your business at risk 40 Member update Welcome to the new members that have joined the FMB, having successfully met all of the required standards 42 Welcome to new Connections Clients The FMB helps members to connect with businesses in the construction industry
Spotlight
18 From G to A – a sustainable win Marlfield Joinery & Construction transformed an old bungalow into a sustainable home 20 Built to last Advice to give to your younger self Business support
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30
43 Member news
Updates from members in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
22 Plan or fail
Long-term strategising for business success
49 Five in five Rapid-fire Q&A with FMB members Richard Powell, Project Director at Powell Design & Construction Ltd, and Martin Daly, Managing Director at Martin Daly Builders Ltd
24 Break the silence
How to open up about mental health
27 H&S round-up
Keeping you and your team safe on site
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Editorial Editor Bradford Keen
Master Builder has been carefully prepared but articles are published without responsibility on the part of the publishers or authors for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any view, information or advice included therin. Articles published in Master Builder do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Federation of Master Builders Ltd nor can the Federation of Master Builders Ltd, the publishers or authors accept any responsibility for any claims made by advertisers.
bradford.keen@redactive.co.uk FMB Marketing Department Radhika Tripathi, Robyn Williams and Toby Bowers Designer David McCullough Picture editor Jessica Marsh Publishing director Joanna Marsh Production Production manager Aysha Miah-Edwards +44 (0)20 7880 6241 aysha.miah@redactive.co.uk
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IPEB([SHUWDGYLFHDQGVXSSRUWB[LQGG MasterBuilder.AugSept21.042.indd 4
13/07/2021 11:13
Welcome BRIAN BERRY
M aster Builder Awards ceremonies have been happening across the UK, with the big national ceremony in Manchester taking place on Friday 26 September. Hosted by television personality Nick Knowles, our ceremonies this year have been the biggest and best to date – so expectations are high for Manchester. Read more about the awards on pages 30-37. See the beautiful work of member Marfield Joinery & Construction in Northern Ireland (pages 18-19), which was highly commended at the awards for its sustainable building converting a 200-year-old bungalow into an energy-efficient home. The FMB’s virtual Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September is significant this year as it includes the election of the new presidential team. Members are able to vote for the new National President and National Vice-President. Details about the AGM can be found on page 14. Given that the FMB is a membership organisation, it’s important to vote so please don’t miss this opportunity. Mental health in construction is a serious concern with high rates of stress, anxiety, depression and suicide. Long hours, physically demanding work, job insecurity and a culture that discourages seeking help contribute to these issues. Turn to pages 24-25 to learn how and why members David Gutierrez and Aidan Cropper, along with the Lighthouse Charity’s CEO Sarah Bolton, emphasise the importance of seeking support when struggling.
“The FMB’s virtual AGM in September is significant this year as it includes the election of the new presidential team. Members are able to vote.”
The FMB has been busy with a range of policy issues – housebuilding, retrofit, skills, the importance of SMEs to the economy – affecting our industry, with a flurry of activity among select committees in the House of Commons wanting evidence from the FMB. To date, we have given oral evidence to four select committees’ inquiries. We have also been asked to take an active role in Professor Peter Bonfield’s inquiry on how to make properties more flood resilient. On retrofit the FMB has been asked to join an expert group advising the government on how best to secure consumer protection for retrofit work. This links in with the FMB’s ongoing work with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), which includes independent research by Professor Gavin Killip to map the retrofit landscape. (See page 15.) Given the uncertain economic situation, businesses need to plan for the long term – and knowing what’s happening in the industry is key. Economist Tom Hall shares his view on the Spring Statement, which included funding for infrastructure and affordable housing. (See page 17.) Business coach Robin Hayhurst is also on hand to offer long-term planning guidance on pages 22-23. In the meantime, enjoy the final moments of summer.
BRIAN BERRY, Chief Executive Federation of Master Builders
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CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY NEWS
has failed them and it’s time to level the playing field. Today we’re taking urgent action to make the system simpler, fairer and more cost effective, so smaller housebuilders can play a crucial role in our journey to get Britain building.” The consultation proposes a national delegation scheme, which would see most minor and technical applications handled by planning officers, reserving only major or controversial decisions for elected committees. Responding to the news, Jeremy Gray, Head of External Affairs at the FMB, said: “This is a big change for the planning system and one that acknowledges the hardships faced by SME housebuilders over the last few decades, which have resulted in their decline. “The UK’s small housebuilders stand ready to deliver the homes Britain needs, but the planning system has stifled their growth. The FMB has long called for reform to the planning system to support SMEs, and so the decision to streamline requirements on sites of up to nine homes, alongside faster decisionmaking is a positive step. “The medium site designation will also be welcomed as it reduces planning hurdles, enabling small housebuilders to scale up their businesses. However, the small site allocation in local plans will need revisiting to fully realise the potential of small house builders. Local planning authorities will also require further investment to ensure that the system has capacity. “We know from the FMB’s 2024 Housebuilders’ Survey that communication with planning officers is a major hindrance to building new homes. We look forward to working with the government on these proposals to ensure that the nation’s micro and SME housebuilders can thrive.”
Easier rules for SME housebuilders
S mall and medium-sized (SME) housebuilders could soon benefit from a shake-up of the planning system, with the government signalling a move to ease burdens and speed up approvals for smaller developments. The Ministry of Housing has outlined proposals to make planning more accessible and cost-effective for SMEs. Under the new plans, developments of fewer than 10 homes would be subject to lighter-touch planning requirements, including fewer Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) obligations. A new category for ‘medium’ residential sites – those between 10 and 49 homes – is
also under consideration, which could carry simpler BNG rules and an exemption from the Building Safety Levy. The proposed changes are detailed in two published documents: Planning Reform Working Paper: Reforming Site Thresholds and Reform of Planning Committees: Technical Consultation . Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said: “Smaller housebuilders must be the bedrock of our ‘Plan for Change’ to build 1.5 million homes and fix the housing crisis we’ve inherited – and get working people on the housing ladder. For decades the status quo
Scan the QR code for the FMB’s 2024 Housebuilders’ Survey
Scan the QR code for Planning Reform
Scan the QR code for Reform of Planning Committees: Technical Consultation
Working Paper: Reforming Site Thresholds
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NEWS IN NUMBERS
PM tells housebuilders to get on with building
U K Prime Minister Keir Starmer has delivered a message to developers: stop stalling and start building. In a major government announcement aimed at accelerating housebuilding, new rules will require developers to commit to clear construction timelines before planning permission is granted. Missed deadlines could trigger a penalty of thousands of pounds per unbuilt home. “My message to housebuilders: get on with it,” the Prime Minister posted on social media, underlining the
government’s hardline stance to tackle delays and speculative land trading. Developers who fail to act on planning permissions may see local authorities step in to acquire the land, particularly where it serves the public interest. Offenders could also be barred from receiving future approvals. In a further shake-up, major developments of over 2,000 homes will need to include at least 40 per cent affordable housing by default. Citing evidence that mixed-tenure projects build out faster, ministers hope this will speed up delivery. Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said, “This government has taken radical steps to overhaul the planning system to get Britain building again after years of inaction. In the name of delivering security for working people, we are backing the builders not the blockers. “No more sites with planning permission gathering dust for decades while a generation struggles to get on the housing ladder. Through
251,500 The number of extra construction workers needed over the next five years – particularly in private housing, infrastructure and RMI – to meet demand. Source: CITB
40,000 The number of construction engineers needed by 2030. Source: Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB)
our Plan for Change, we will deliver 1.5 million homes.”
29m The number of existing
residential properties that need to be upgraded to meet the UK’s climate targets.
Source: UK Green Building Council
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INDUSTRY UPDATE NEWS
Home Office targets UK building sites C onstruction sites are the focus of the Home Office’s efforts to stamp out illegal working in the UK. While construction isn’t the only sector under scrutiny – others include restaurants and nail bars, for example – it does account for a number of employers subjecting illegal workers, often migrants, to unfair, unsafe and unethical working conditions where workers are underpaid and overworked. In March, for example, nearly 40 people were arrested at a construction site in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, after the Home Office investigated it. Those arrested were guilty of numerous offences, ranging from breached visa conditions to illegal entry to the UK without permission to work. Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Dame Angela Eagle, said: “For too long, employers have been able to take
EU approves JCB’s hydrogen engine J CB has achieved a key milestone in its hydrogen technology programme, securing full EU type-
“This is another very significant moment for JCB’s hydrogen programme,” said chairman Anthony Bamford. “To have secured full EU type-approval proves that the internal combustion engine has a future – if powered by zero-carbon hydrogen.” JCB has produced over 130 hydrogen evaluation engines powering backhoe loaders, Loadall handlers, and generators. Pre-launch field testing is underway, with customer-ready machines expected soon. “We’re ready to bring hydrogen- powered equipment to market,” Bamford said.
approval for its hydrogen combustion engine, enabling sales and use across the EU, EEA, and EFTA regions. The certification confirms the engine meets EU Stage V emissions standards under Regulation (EU) 2016/1628. It follows previous temporary approvals by 10 authorities across nine European nations under ‘new technology’ provisions. UK approval had already been granted.
on and exploit migrants, with people allowed to arrive and work here illegally. “This will no longer
Government’s AI planning underway
T he government has partnered with Google to introduce Extract, an AI tool to reduce planning departments’ workloads by digitising old, paper-based planning records – some hundreds of pages long – into high-quality digital and geospatial data in minutes. “We’re harnessing the power of AI to help planning officers cut red tape, speed up decisions and unlock new homes for hard-working people,” said Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Planning officers in England currently spend an estimated 250,000 hours
annually checking and validating paper documents. With over 350,000 applications submitted each year, the existing process is inefficient. In pilot schemes across Hillingdon, Nuneaton & Bedworth, and Exeter, Extract converted maps and documents in under three minutes, compared to up to two hours manually. The technology could process about 100 records a day— clearing backlogs and enabling faster housing delivery. The government aims to roll out Extract across all English local authorities by the end of 2026.
be tolerated on our watch. That’s why we are ramping up our enforcement activity and introducing tougher laws to finally get a grip of our immigration and asylum system. “Under our Plan for Change, we will continue to root out unscrupulous employers and disrupt illegal workers who undermine our border security.”
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NEWS IN NUMBERS
Consultants must cough up
A UK Supreme Court ruling has confirmed that developers can recover building safety remediation costs from consultants, engineers, and others involved in a building’s original design and construction. The case, URS Corporation Ltd v BDW Trading, saw Barratt Redrow successfully sue consulting engineer URS for structural design defects discovered after buildings had been sold. Despite having fixed the defects voluntarily, BDW claimed losses for remediation works, and the Court ruled that such voluntary action did not bar recovery.
This judgment is seen as a major victory for developers, offering clarity on the implications of the Building Safety Act 2022 and the extended 30-year limitation under the Defective Premises Act (DPA). The Court confirmed that developers can be owed and owe duties under the DPA and that claims in contribution need not await formal settlement or judgment. The ruling encourages safety action, with the Court emphasising that responsible developers should not be penalised for remediating defects. Legal experts agree the ruling unlocks pathways for developers to pursue their supply chains – designers, consultants, and contractors – for compensation.
23% W omen at the UK’s largest construction firms earn 23% less per hour than men. Source: Trades Union Congress
Boosting biodiversity skills
L ocal authorities across England are ramping up training efforts to meet new biodiversity net gain (BNG) rules introduced in February 2024, according to environmental education charity the Field Studies Council (FSC). Nearly half of all group training enquiries for the FSC’s BNG courses this year have come from local councils, with a further 23 per cent from landscape architects, developers, and planning consultants – highlighting a sector-wide demand for support. The new regulations require developers to deliver a minimum 10 per cent improvement in biodiversity after
completing projects, placing pressure on planning departments to implement complex environmental metrics. An FSC programme for Worcestershire’s county and district councils proved effective, where 50 staff across planning, legal, biodiversity, and countryside teams attended, receiving guidance on securing BNG through legal mechanisms such as Section 106 agreements. Cody Levine of Worcestershire County Council said of the training: “Particularly valuable was the focus on building confidence in reviewing submissions and understanding what ‘good’ BNG looks like.”
15% The p ercentage of women
working in the UK’s construction industry. Source: ONS
36,000 The number of home completions in the 2024/25 period – up 14 per cent from 2023/24. Source: Homes England
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INDUSTRY UPDATE NEWS
‘Builders need a licence to work’
A cross-party group of MPs has called for a nationwide licensing scheme for builders working on home energy upgrades, in a move they say will rebuild trust and raise standards in the retrofit sector. The Energy Security and Net Zero Committee, in its latest report, Retrofitting Homes for Net Zero , warned that poor regulation is fuelling consumer hesitation, with many homeowners unsure who to trust with costly home improvements. “Licensing building companies is a fantastic idea,” said Committee Chair Bill
It recommends penalties and revoking licences to enforce quality. Supporters include the FMB, whose CEO Brian Berry said: “Mandatory licensing will drive out rogue traders, protect consumers, and elevate the image of construction as a skilled, respected profession.” The government is exploring licensing for contractors on high-rise projects post-Grenfell, but the committee urges expansion across the domestic sector— though it remains unclear if ministers will extend the scheme amid concerns over red tape and delays.
Esterson MP. “It protects the good traders… and also protects the consumer.” The proposed scheme would require all contractors undertaking retrofit work – including insulation and double glazing installations – to be licensed and accredited. A small registration fee would also help fund a national advice service, guiding consumers to certified workers. The lack of protections has allowed rogue traders to operate unimpeded, the report says, citing insulation scandals and grant scheme failures as examples of why stronger regulation is needed.
Construction coalition slams nature levy backlash
A powerful coalition of over 80 developers, environmental experts, legal professionals and conservationists is urging the government to abandon a clause in its Planning & Infrastructure Bill, warning that it risks harm to nature and the integrity of the planning system. Part 3 of the bill proposes allowing developers to bypass on-site biodiversity
increased delays and legal uncertainty, and argue the bill ignores the causes of planning inefficiency – underfunded councils and red tape – not environmental safeguards. The coalition rejects the levy as an alternative, arguing that “the private sector has proven its ability to innovate and scale environmental markets” and should remain central to nature recovery efforts.
harm to nature, to the integrity of the planning system, and to investor and public confidence.” The letter cites warnings from the Office for Environmental Protection, which said the proposals would “reduce the level of environmental protection” under current law. Concerns extend beyond conservation. Developers fear
net gain (BNG) obligations by paying into a central nature levy, administered by Natural England. Critics argue this would amount to a “pay to pollute” scheme that undermines environmental protections. In a letter, the coalition writes: “We collectively call on the government to pause and rethink this legislation before it does irreversible
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NEWS
In favour of CITB levy
Recycled K-BRIQ shows a shift in building sustainability
C onstruction employers have voted in favour of the Construction Industry Training Board’s (CITB) proposed levy rates for 2026–2029, allowing the organisation to continue collecting the statutory charge used to fund industry training. This year’s vote saw 67.2 per cent of levy-paying employers support the proposal, while 32.8 per cent opposed it. Among trade bodies, or ‘prescribed organisations’, support was even stronger, with 89.3 per cent (12 out of 14) in agreement. Only the National Federation of Builders and the Finishes and Interiors Sector voted against the plan. Levy rates will remain unchanged at PAYE: 0.35 per cent and CIS subcontractors: 1.25 per cent. Thresholds for exemption and reductions will also rise. Employers with a combined PAYE and CIS payroll below £150,000 will pay no levy, and those between £150,000 and £499,999 will receive a 50 per cent reduction. The vote outcome has been submitted to the Department for Education for formal ratification, after which a new levy order will be issued. CITB Chief Executive Tim Balcon said: “The levy is designed to ensure that construction employers of all sizes feel supported with their skills and training needs. We are really pleased that levy payers continue to be supportive of the levy proposals.” He added that CITB will now focus on delivering its strategic plan, aiming to support at least 35,000 employers and build a “simpler, more responsive skills and training system.”
A pioneering company in East Lothian is turning the construction industry on its head, one recycled brick at a time. Kenoteq’s K-BRIQ, made from recycled construction, demolition and excavation waste, have received full certification for use in the UK. Unlike traditional clay-fired bricks, which rely on high- temperature kilns and fossil fuels, K-BRIQs are made using ultra-low carbon processes, eliminating the need for firing altogether. Instead of discarded waste materials – gravel, brick, stone – being sent to landfill, they are made into a usable brick within 24 hours. Each K-BRIQ contains nearly 100 per cent recycled material and has a carbon
footprint up to 95 per cent lower than conventional bricks. After more than a decade of research at Heriot-Watt University into reducing construction waste, which globally accounts for more than a third of landfill content, the bricks could help to make construction more sustainable. “Our immediate goal is to scale up to two million bricks per year in a single shift,” said Dr Sam Chapman, Co-Founder of Kenoteq. “We believe we can double that as demand increases. But with the UK using around 2.5 billion bricks annually, we’re still a
small drop in the ocean.” The company’s Head of
Business Development, Lucy Black, said: “We’re trying to change the vocabulary of waste – reframing it as a valuable resource, not a problem.”
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YOUR FMB 2025 NATIONAL AGM
It’s that time of year again when the FMB hosts its Annual General Meeting to discuss important matters and elect your representatives THE FMB’S AGM N otice is hereby given that the Federation of Master Builders’
Presidential Team; ● To appoint Auditors (Crowe UK LLP); ● Alterations to the FMB Rules ● To consider motions* on general policy matters submitted from UK Area Boards; and ● Any other business of which notice has been given.
How do I vote in the National AGM?
84 th National Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held virtually on Monday, 29 September 2025 at 11am. IMPORTANT INFORMATION Agenda ● To confirm the minutes of the 83 rd AGM; ● Chief Executive’s address and approval of Accounts for 2024; ● Election of the FMB’s
● Members will receive an invitation to vote in advance of the FMB National AGM by email from Mi-Voice, an independent organisation, who are supporting the FMB with the voting process. This will be the only opportunity to vote. ● On or around 2 September 2025 the AGM email will be sent from elections@mi-voice.com, so please check your email inbox and junk/spam folder for your personal voting code. If you are unable to locate your AGM email please contact Mi-Voice at +44 (0) 2380 763 987 or email support@mi-voice.com . ● If you do not currently receive emails from the FMB, please contact Mi-Voice using the contact details above to be issued with a voting code and instruction to cast your AGM vote.
* UK Area Board motions on general policy matters should be submitted to Alison King ( alisonking@fmb.org.uk ) by 22 August 2025.
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THE WORD AT WESTMINSTER
This is a prime opportunity to make the government listen to small builders’ needs, says Jeremy Gray, Head of External Affairs at the FMB WHAT’S UP AT WESTMINSTER?
M Ps are away for the summer but return with a bang for their party conferences in September, with thousands – including the FMB – heading to cities around the country to make their cases. This is a prime opportunity to communicate the importance of the nation’s builders to decision-makers while they are all in one place and in listening mode. We have a packed agenda from political parties, with updates to follow in the next edition of Master Builder . But for now, here’s what was happening before MPs packed their bags for summer holidays. Licensing momentum gains We continue to push for licensing, with one of the greatest leaps yet for the campaign. You may recall we launched a new outline for licensing in the House of Lords, which I covered in the last issue of this magazine. The research showed massive support for licensing among consumers. We saw great media coverage, with The Sun publishing the story and calling on consumers to choose FMB members when commissioning building work. On the back of all this, the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee supported our calls for licensing, asking the government to introduce a licensing scheme for retrofit work. This was in response to dodgy insulation work that was widely reported earlier in the year. While this won’t cover the whole industry, it’s a leap in the right direction and could help to establish a foothold and template for industry wide implementation.
committee – with a planning officer able to sign it off providing conditions are met. This should speed up the planning process, especially as planning committees can sometimes stall the process of getting homes built. But this proposed solution needs to be backed by funding the development of new planning officers because without well-staffed planning departments, homes will still get stuck in the system. Beyond this change, the government has also announced a new medium site definition – up to 50 homes – which will have certain restrictions streamlined, such as biodiversity net gain, to help sites be built quicker. This will help our members to grow, which is desperately needed as there hasn’t been an SME-housebuilder-turned-large- developer in decades. The spending review We could have seen more from Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, during the spending review, in which she set out her spending priorities against a background of a volatile economy. What we did get was a £39 billion spending package for social housing. But without enabling SMEs to engage in social housing procurement processes, our members will miss out. So we must see this process improved. More positively, there was more than £1 billion pounds pledged to invest in apprenticeships, which is essential given the need for 250,000 construction workers by 2028 to keep the lights on in our industry.
Jeremy Gray is the FMB’s Head of External Affairs
Major planning reforms are coming
Since the last edition of Master Builder , we’ve also seen probably the biggest changes in a generation announced for the planning system. We’re pleased to see that the government has listened to the FMB and will make it easier for small housebuilders to build. The most radical of all changes is that sites of fewer than 10 homes will be dealt with at the planning stage and will no longer have to go to the planning
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INDUSTRY ANALYSIS
The recent Spring Statement marks the next phase in the Labour government’s plans and provides cautious optimism, says Tom Hall, Chief Economist at Aqua Consultants TREADING THE TIGHTROPE
T he main themes from raising budget. This year set out the direction of travel for Labour’s spending priorities for the next four years and boosted sentiment. As with last year’s budget, the Chancellor delivered the maximum possible investment amid tight 2025’s Spring Statement included negativity about the economy and a tax- financial conditions, changing fiscal rules to unlock additional borrowing. The government continues to walk a tightrope of
is welcome. It’s a near doubling of the programme over the next five years, which had £11.8 billion allocated already. Combined with announcements of more help for small builders with streamlined planning for small sites and exclusive land from Homes England, the news is positive for builders. Long road ahead Cutting through the negative press, reaction from business has been broadly supportive. Long-term focus is the only answer to solve the British economy’s many issues. Productivity levels, investment and growth, housing, health, and crumbling public infrastructure are problems that will take time to solve. Investment must be made now to realise future benefits. Pressure is on to deliver results after years of cuts to public services. People are anxious for tangible improvements to public services and their financial prospects. Any lack of perceived progress will add pressure on the government. All in all, the Spring Statement provided a cautiously positive spending review with a focus on the long-term that should deliver benefits over the coming years,
This is Labour’s hope. Additionally, commitment to spend more over a longer period incentivises companies to invest and train workers. More money for priorities There was a clear focus on the levelling-up agenda, with commitments for major investments outside London. This is applicable for transport, with greater attention on local transport connectivity outside of the South East – with more funding for Northern Powerhouse Rail, East West Rail, Midlands Rail
Tom Hall
government debt, strict fiscal constraints and the need to keep financial markets from panicking. A highly febrile
Hub, and Welsh rail projects. Energy is the biggest single
winner in monetary terms, with the government focusing on nuclear: ● confirmation of Sizewell C; ● £8.3 billion for Great British Energy to trial small modular nuclear reactors; and ● £2.5 billion for nuclear fusion research. Relevant to construction, is the £13.2 billion for home insulation, which will deliver certainty for service providers. Critics will say it is not enough but it is as much as could have been hoped for right now. Turning specifically to housing, £39 billion in grants on affordable housing over the next 10 years
global economy brought on by US trade wars, and war in the Middle East, makes everything riskier. The Chancellor seems to have skilfully achieved that balance (as she did with the spring budget). A higher level of long-term capital investment will be delivered without a spike in the UK’s bond yields. The theory is that, over time, this investment will boost the UK’s long-term growth rate and improve its flatlining productivity. Studies show that when government investment is made, private-sector investment can “crowd in”.
but could easily be blown off course by unfolding events.
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SPOTLIGHT MARLFIELD JOINERY & CONSTRUCTION
TO G A- A SUSTAINABLE WIN
FROM
I n a quiet laneway overlooking the
Marlfield Joinery & Construction transformed an old bungalow into a landmark of sustainable building
potential only reaching F. Many builders advised the clients to demolish and rebuild, but Marlfield took a different path: reuse, preserve and elevate. The decision to retrofit rather than rebuild set the foundation for a transformative sustainability journey. By retaining the original structure, the team preserved the embodied carbon of the existing materials and honoured the historical context of the home. From there, every design and construction choice was calibrated to reduce energy consumption and limit the environmental footprint.
breathtaking expanse of Strangford Lough in County
Down, Northern Ireland, sits a modest 200-year-old bungalow – the renovation of which is a picture-perfect example of what happens when passion, innovation, and sustainability intersect. Lough View – as the property is now known – has emerged as a beacon of green construction in a rural area steeped in natural beauty and environmental sensitivity. The project even earned Marlfield Joinery & Construction Ltd a Highly
Commended recognition in the Sustainable Building Award category at the 2025 Northern Ireland Master Builder Awards. What makes this project truly compelling is not just the exceptional outcome – a near- Passive House standard EPC rating of A (95/100) – but the journey taken to achieve it. For Marlfield Joinery & Construction, the brief was clear: preserve the character
of a beloved home while reducing its environmental impact. The finished project showcases cutting-edge sustainable building with a respectful approach to heritage and local ecology. How it began When the clients purchased the cottage-style bungalow in 2021, it was in a poor state of repair, with a dismal EPC rating of G and an initial retrofit
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cum-workshop to house the clients’ sailing gear. Although the scale was small, its sustainability significance was profound. The garage, fully insulated and double-glazed, became more than a utility space. Its roof was outfitted with 5.6kWp of solar PV panels – enough to power the entire home and contribute surplus energy to the regional grid. Over 11 months, energy costs were under £800 – remarkable given the all-electric operation of the property. Every light fitting is LED. Every appliance was selected for efficiency. Showers are low-flow. And all electrical systems were future-proofed for further integrations, should the clients decide to install battery storage or EV charging. A sustainable lifestyle What sets this project apart isn’t just its energy metrics or material choices, it’s the alignment of every stakeholder, from client to architect to builder, behind a singular vision: to live lightly on the land. Marlfield Joinery & Construction showed that deep green upgrades are viable in rural Northern Ireland and can thrive in heritage homes with planning sensitivities. In doing so, the company created more than just a high- performance house; Lough View shows how local builders can meet global challenges head-on, with creativity, determination and respect. As the construction industry seeks to decarbonise, projects such as Lough View provide a valuable roadmap, showing that sustainability can be achieved through thoughtful decisions and the willingness to do things differently.
The insulation strategy was one of the most impactful upgrades. Original walls were wrapped in the Soltherm External Wall Insulation system finished with acrylic render, maintaining the traditional whitewashed aesthetic while drastically improving thermal performance. The team installed 600mm loft insulation, excavated and insulated original floors, and replaced all windows and doors with high-performance triple-glazed units. The heating was completely overhauled. An air-source heat pump, feeding primarily underfloor heating systems, delivers renewable warmth throughout the home. The integration of a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) system ensures comfort and airtightness, resulting in an impressive air test score of just 1.5 air changes per hour at 50 Pa. Natural solutions Achieving these high standards on a site within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was not without its hurdles. Close proximity to Strangford Lough and a nearby wetland reserve meant environmental sensitivity was paramount. Site logistics required careful planning, especially considering the narrow rural road and local ecosystem. Deliveries were scheduled at off-peak times to avoid disrupting local traffic and wildlife. By sourcing from local suppliers and manufacturers – including window, door, and kitchen fabricators – Marlfield reduced transport-related emissions and minimised the build’s carbon footprint.
Even waste management was approached with precision. Loose debris was contained, scrap metals were segregated for recycling, and no fires were allowed on site, preventing airborne pollutants. The most unexpected challenge arose below ground. An archaeological discovery – a burial raft – delayed the garage foundations, requiring an archaeologist’s oversight and sensitive handling of the site. Later, a retaining wall became necessary due to the site’s topography. Marlfield chose Colinwell Allan block for minimal environmental impact and visual harmony with the surrounding Scrabo stone, while offering permeability for natural drainage.
A modest extension One of the unique features of Lough View is its humility. Despite grand ambitions for energy performance, the extension to the home was deliberately modest, expanding the living area by just 42 square metres and adding a garage-
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SPOTLIGHT MEMBER VOICES
I t’s highly likely that there have knew then what I know now. Learning is hard and not nearly as effective if we don’t have to struggle through certain, inevitable challenges along the way. But with the incredible power of hindsight, what would you do differently – assuming you could? For Louise Tingley, Director and Interior Designer at Neways Group Ltd in Shropham, Norfolk, one of been quite a few times in your life when you have thought: If I only the most valuable early lessons she has learnt isn’t about profit margins or project management, it is about identity. “I’d tell my younger self that ‘you’re allowed to evolve’,” she says. “It’s okay to explore different paths in life, to shift direction, to dream new dreams at any age.” That mindset has been key to her resilience and willingness to change direction. “You don’t have to tie your identity to one single skill, title, or trade; you are more than what you do,” she adds. The lesson for Alexandra Powell, Managing Director of Powell Design & Construction Ltd in Stoke-on-Trent, is rooted in structure and people. “When we started out, Richard [business partner and husband] and I wore all the hats in the business,” she recalls. “It was exciting but also overwhelming.” The turning point came when she began to prioritise team-building. “If I could go back, I’d tell myself to invest early in building a team with genuinely complementary strengths. The real growth in our business began when I focused on understanding what motivates each person and how their skills fit together.” Scaling sensibly Both Powell and Tingley speak about the importance of building from a place of stability, not haste. Powell puts it plainly: “We adopted the mindset of ‘do less, better’.” This
With your current knowledge, what would you say to your younger self? FMB members Alexandra Powell and Louise Tingley share their top advice BUILT TO LAST
For her, that means ensuring strong systems, a healthy team culture, and a robust mindset. “We build from strength, not stress.” For both leaders, hiring is far more than filling roles, it’s about protecting the integrity of the business. Powell swears by the maxim: “Hire for attitude and train for skill. Skills can be taught, but a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and genuine care for the work and our clients are what drive the business forward.” Having learnt some of her toughest lessons from hiring missteps, Tingley takes a similarly rigorous approach. “I’ve had a business embezzled from me before,” she shares. “I’ve hired the
ethos led her team to document workflows, review operations, and build systems that could withstand growth without sacrificing quality. “If I could do it again, I’d put structured systems in place from day one,” Powell says. “They make onboarding smoother, uphold standards, and create space for the team to innovate.” It’s similar for Tingley, sharing a metaphor that has stayed with her: “Don’t turn the tap on harder if you’ve got a bucket full of holes.” The advice, she says, has influenced every strategic move at Neways Group. “You can’t scale what isn’t sustainable. Before chasing growth, you need to know what is and is not working effectively.”
Alexandra Powell
Louise Tingley
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MEMBER VOICES
importantly, surround yourself with people who are motivated, adaptable and eager to learn because the right team makes all the difference.” In it for the long haul Both Powell and Tingley have built businesses that are not only growing but evolving, thanks to a mix of practical systems, clarity of purpose and the courage to make tough decisions. For those in the construction industry looking to grow sustainably, their advice is refreshingly honest and practical. As Powell sums up, “Invest in your processes early. They’re not just admin, they’re the backbone of sustainable success.” Perhaps the most enduring reminder from Tingley is: “The world needs who you are becoming, not just what you once thought you’d be.” The foundations of a strong business lie equally in mindset, people, and process. With leaders
way people see us in this industry is by setting ourselves apart from those who give it a bad name.” If there’s one consistent thread running through Powell and Tingley’s guidance, it’s the importance of starting small, but thinking long-term. “Don’t despise small beginnings,” says Tingley. “You’re not ‘just’ starting out; you’re building something of value. Success isn’t about being perfect from day one; it’s about being willing to learn, and growing with grit.” Her advice to newcomers is grounded and practical: “Invest in your training, surround yourself with people who call you higher, and remember: the work you do matters.” Powell reinforces the importance of values and intentionality. “Be clear about what you want your business to stand for, and focus on building a team that shares your values,” she advises. “Don’t try to be everything to everyone.”
wrong people, taken too long to release them, shared too much too soon, and undervalued my own expertise.” The experience has made her approach more measured: “Now, I hire slowly, fire quickly, and keep my inner circle small and trusted.” Learning to say no One of Powell’s standout pieces of advice is to be selective: strategically and unapologetically. “In the early days, it’s tempting to take on every opportunity,” she admits. “But over time, I realised that being selective is essential for sustainable growth.” Powell implemented a project filtering system to ensure alignment with her company’s strengths and values. “This clarity has allowed us to concentrate on projects that are the right fit, which in turn has improved our conversion rate and overall profitability.” Tingley also prizes clarity, especially around standards and reputation. “Know your values and don’t be afraid to lead with them,” she advises. “Don’t dilute your standards to fit someone else’s comfort zone. The only way we can change the
Her emphasis is on process and people: “Take the time to document your way of working, and keep refining it. Most
like Powell and Tingley at the helm, the future of construction looks not just strong, but smart.
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BUSINESS SUPPORT FIVE-YEAR PLAN
How to create a five-year strategy to improve the trajectory of your business
F ailing to plan over the long term is not just risky, it’s a near-guarantee that you will remain stuck, overwhelmed, and reactive. So says Construction Industry Coach and Mentor Robin Hayhurst. “Too many construction business owners focus on getting to the next month, and that’s about as far as they look,” he warns. “But if you’re going to grow your business long-term, you have to take a good look at the people around you, those that can support you and grow with you, and those perhaps that can’t.” Hayhurst, who works with firms of all sizes to improve performance and strategy, urges builders to adopt a clear five-year growth plan to increase their chances of success. “Just looking at your growth for five years is such a fundamental thing to do. If you have your five-year plan or growth mapped out, you can start to measure yourself against it. That makes a huge difference.” Long-term risk When it comes to investing in your business and managing cash flow, it’s helpful to think of ordering a lorry of bricks to site. I could leave it to the last minute, and while I would be able to get the bricks delivered, “I am really going to pay through the nose for it”, Hayhurst says. “But if I started shopping around four or six weeks before I needed them, I could get a decent price. It’s the same thing with funding and cash flow. Planning ahead gives you time, options, and control to make better decisions.” While some hesitate to set long- term targets amid political shifts, labour shortages or rising material costs, Hayhurst still favours long-term planning. “You’ve got to plan as if everything’s stable, and then the firefighting bit, which our industry is really good at, comes in when things pivot and change. But you’ve got to plan for a stable environment.”
This mindset shift is essential. He points out that in the last five years, the UK construction industry has weathered Brexit, Covid-19, economic uncertainty, and international conflict – yet business continues.
that is systems and processes. “By having a process with templates that you can follow, you’re saving time. Following a process means you’re not reinventing the wheel every day.” Even when things go wrong – staff sickness, bad weather, supplier delays – a clear process allows consistency and frees up space
Robin Hayhurst
“If you sit there thinking, This is stopping my business from running. I’m not going to be successful,’ and you’re negative about it, what chance have you got?” Instead, create a five-year roadmap based on what you can control: your vision, capacity, team, finances, and operational processes. Metrics with meaning While every business is different, Hayhurst says key performance indicators (KPIs) might include turnover, profit, number of staff, tender win rates, or number of active projects. It really depends on what the leader’s vision is for the business. Profit, for example, is a valuable metric but not as straightforward as turnover, which often just measures size and not necessarily success. “Your KPIs should reflect what success means for you, not what the company down the road is doing,” he says. Many builders find it hard to carve out time for big-picture thinking. Hayhurst
for strategic thinking. “If you wake up and you’re not feeling 100 per cent, you don’t have to think about it. Just follow the process,” he adds.
Assassins or ambassadors Planning isn’t just about numbers. Culture,
communication and leadership play a vital role in making long- term goals stick. “The culture of a
business is really around the leader and the language
says that’s because they’re stuck working in the business instead of on it. The key to changing
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