BUILD UK Updates - Painting and Decorating Association

Build UK is the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry. By bringing together Clients, Main Contractors, Trade Associations representing over 11,500 Specialist Contractors and other organisations committed to industry collaboration, Build UK represents in excess of 40% of UK construction.

Their regular updates contain important information for our industry.

Last Updated: 16/07/2026

A New Strategy for Built Environment Professions

Navigating the Building Safety Regime remains one of Build UK’s priorities, and thank you to all those members who attended our Forum meeting last week, where we were joined by the Building Professions Team from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to explore in more detail how its call for evidence will help shape a long‐term strategy for built environment professions, trades and occupations.

Whilst acknowledging that many within construction aim to deliver safe, high performing and sustainable buildings, the call for evidence describes an industry characterised by “fragmented accountability, inadequate standards of professionalism, and persistent failures of competence and ethical behaviour” that do not consistently support and reinforce good practice. With the latest report from the Industry Safety Steering Group (ISSG) questioning the pace of culture change within the industry, members discussed the challenges impacting professional conduct, including cashflow, contractual practices, risk allocation and production pressures, which will need to be addressed to deliver the systemic change required.

Due to be published next spring, the strategy is expected to include a transition period to support the industry to move towards the long‐term vision for the future. Build UK will be responding to the call for evidence by the deadline of Wednesday 12 August, and we would welcome comments and feedback via email from members across the supply chain.

Changes to Building Safety Regime

Build UK continues to work with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to provide clarity and consistency around the regulatory requirements, and the Government has set out in a Written Ministerial Statement the steps it is taking to improve their effectiveness and proportionality, particularly for Higher‐Risk Buildings (HRBs), whilst maintaining safety standards.

Building Assessment Certificates (BACs) – The BSR will update its approach to BACs and new applications will only be called in where necessary until the new arrangements are in place. The BSR is also exploring options for a fast‐track reassessment route for previously refused BACs.
Telecommunications work – From 1 September 2026, MHCLG will dispense with all procedural requirements to gain Building Control Approval for the installation of fibre optic cabling in all buildings. It will also dispense with the procedural requirements for building work to mobile communication masts on rooftops of HRBs at Gateway Two, but the requirements at Gateway Three will remain.
Work in existing HRBs – MHCLG is looking to exclude most building work within individual flats and some small‐scale building work in communal areas of HRBs from Category A, so that these works become Category B, reducing the documentation burden on applicants.
Emergency repairs – A consultation has been launched on amending the emergency repairs provision to include a wider range of ‘emergency works’, as well as introducing a new route for critical works so that they can take place without prior approval from the BSR. The deadline for responses is Thursday 3 September.

Further steps have been announced to speed up the remediation of unsafe cladding. New applications to the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS) will be prioritised according to risk to life, rather than solely by height, and a new targeted fund to remediate multi‐occupied buildings under 11 metres in England will open on Monday 17 August. Homes England will also launch the National Remediation Database in the autumn to provide a single view of all remediation activity.

The Government has also published its response to the Single Construction Regulator Prospectus, confirming that it will proceed with the creation of a single regulator for buildings, products and professions. Legislation will be taken forward as soon as Parliamentary time allows, and implementation of the Single Construction Regulator is expected to start from 2028 with the BSR as its foundation.

Delivering Infrastructure

Build UK has joined the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and other industry organisations in signing a joint letter urging the incoming Prime Minister to ‘stay the course’ with current infrastructure plans, as set out in the 10‐Year Infrastructure Strategy, in order to create jobs, boost regional prosperity and drive economic growth.

With Andy Burnham due to be appointed Prime Minister next week, we will be highlighting how the Infrastructure Pipeline, which sets out £725 billion of projects and programmes over the next decade, will provide businesses with the certainty and confidence they need to invest, helping to meet his ambitions for ‘decent infrastructure in all parts of the UK’ and the ‘regeneration of places’.

The Government is pushing ahead with plans to speed up the delivery of infrastructure projects, and its response to the consultation on streamlining the planning process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) sets out the new measures that will be taken forward. These include removing the statutory requirement to consult prior to submitting a Development Consent Order; ensuring earlier technical input from the Planning Inspectorate; and new decision stage guidance to clarify the process for making decisions and judicial review. The Government has laid legislation before Parliament to enable the key reforms to commence on 24 July 2026.

Right to Work Checks Extended

As part of tackling illegal working, the Government has confirmed right to work checks will be extended from 1 October 2026 to include casual or temporary workers, sub‐contractors, and agency workers supplied through contractual chains. Employers have the following options for ensuring an individual has the right to work in the UK:

Use a certified digital identity service provider to conduct digital checks on any individual who has either a valid British or Irish Passport (or Irish Passport Card). The employer must still confirm that the individual presenting for work is the same as whose identity has been verified, which can be done via video call.
Conduct an online check via the Home Office online service where an individual has been provided with an eVisa or is providing certain other documentation. An employer can also use the Employer Checking Service in specific circumstances, for example where an individual has an outstanding application or appeal with the Home Office.
Conduct in‐person manual document‐based checks, where the employer has to physically obtain, check and copy ‘acceptable documents’ from the prospective employee. It should be noted that a driving licence is not an acceptable document.

The Government has confirmed that it will issue further guidance in due course, and Build UK members are advised to identify who among their staff will fall within the extended right to work scope and start reviewing contracts and processes. Employers conducting right to work checks in accordance with the Home Office guidance will be provided with a ‘statutory excuse’, which protects them from liability if they are later found to be employing someone illegally. Without a statutory excuse, employers face significant penalties, which could be up to a maximum of £60,000 per worker.

CLC Appointments

Congratulations to Build UK member Stuart Togwell (Kier Group) who has been appointed Deputy Co‐Chair of the CLC and will work with Co‐Chair Mark Reynolds (Mace Construct) to lead the CLC’s priorities. Another member, Lilly Gallafent (Cast), has been appointed Industry Sponsor for Digitalisation of Planning & Building Control, whilst Paul Beeston will lead Business Model Reform.

Summer Site Security

With summer school holidays starting, the HSE is calling on the industry to keep construction sites secure and prevent children from gaining access. Members should follow guidance on protecting the public, including ensuring fencing or hoarding is erected and maintained, excavations are barriered off or covered over, and sites are adequately secured when finishing work for the day.

Overseas Opportunities

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) manages one of the Government’s largest property portfolios across 179 countries, and companies experienced in international construction, design and facilities management, and programme delivery are invited to join a meeting on Tuesday 28 July in London to find out more about the pipeline of work.

Measuring Productivity

Build UK member Mace Construct has published a report on improving productivity across the construction sector, which has fallen by 20% since the 1970s. The recommendations include encouraging employers to measure and share productivity data, enforcing the Construction Playbook on public sector projects, and increasing direct employment in key specialist trades.

Award‐Winning Members

Congratulations to the Build UK members who were winners at the 30^th anniversary CN Awards last week in a fantastic show of the talent, innovation and commitment that makes up the teams driving our industry forwards.

Galliford Try Infrastructure – Low Carbon Project of the Year
Kier – Diversity and Inclusion Excellence
Laing O’Rourke – Company Innovation of the Year
Mace Consult – Rising Star (Dr Marzia Bolpagni)
McLaughlin & Harvey – Health, Safety and Wellbeing Excellence
Morgan Sindall Infrastructure – Project of the Year (under £20m)
Multiplex – Project of the Year (over £50m)
Tilbury Douglas – Regeneration Project of the Year
VINCI as part of BBV – Digital Construction Excellence
VolkerStevin part of VolkerWessels UK – Project of the Year (£20m – £50m)

More success for members came in the Government’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers, with Arup, AWE, BAM, Department for Education (DfE), Kier, Network Rail, Transport for London and Sellafield all recognised for their commitment to recruiting, developing and retaining apprentices.

Last Updated: 09/07/2026

Countdown to Open Doors 2027

We are delighted to kick off a new chapter for Open Doors, the industry‐wide initiative delivered by Build UK to inspire careers in construction. Based on feedback from members, we are introducing a more flexible format for 2027, which will enable events to take place throughout March, providing even more opportunities to showcase the sector and the wide range of careers we have to offer.

With the latest CITB Construction Workforce Outlook confirming that the industry will need an additional 41,200 workers a year until 2030, Open Doors has a proven track record of recruiting young people and those looking for a change of career. Open Doors 2026 welcomed over 6,500 visitors across the UK, and we are looking to build on that success in 2027. Our Countdown to #OpenDoors27 contains all the key dates between now and next March, and more information on how you can get involved and open up your sites, offices, manufacturing facilities and training centres can be found in our latest Open Doors update.

Apply for the Youth Jobs Grant

The Government has committed to ensuring that every young person has access to further education, training or a job, and the new Youth Jobs Grant, which opened for applications on 30 June 2026, will pay employers £3,000 for taking on a young person aged 18 to 24 who has been on Universal Credit and looking for work for over six months.

To apply for the grant, employers must operate in Great Britain, have traded for at least six months, be registered with HMRC, and not be part of central Government.
After their suitability has been assessed, employers will be invited to submit vacancies, which must pay at least the National Minimum Wage for a minimum of 25 hours per week for a minimum of 16 weeks.
The number of funded roles available to each employer will be based on a ‘permitted ratio‘ of total employees.
Once the young person starts, the grant will be paid in two stages: £1,800 after six weeks and £1,200 after 18 weeks.

Part of the Youth Guarantee scheme, the grant will be available for three years until October 2028, and applications should be submitted via the online application form. An employer toolkit has been produced to help navigate the process and recruitment support is available through Jobcentre Plus.

Latest Gateway Data Published

The latest data published by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) for the period 6 April to 28 June 2026 shows that 368 decisions were made across all Gateway Two application types – new build, refurbishment and remediation – with an approval rate of 77%. However, 328 applications (47%) were deemed invalid or withdrawn in the same period.

There are currently 1,505 Gateway Two applications in progress and the number of closed applications (729) was again slightly higher than the number of new applications (705) over the last 12 weeks. The Innovation Unit, which processes new build applications, made 37 decisions with an approval rate of 89% in this period. Thirteen applications were categorised as ‘complex cases’, which are reported on separately, and 17 applications were deemed invalid or withdrawn.

Following a request from Build UK, Category A and B refurbishment applications are reported on separately from other applications for the first time. There were 237 decisions made with an approval rate of 73%, and 299 applications deemed invalid or withdrawn. There were 85 decisions made on remediation applications with an approval rate of 85%, and 12 deemed invalid or withdrawn. To help improve the quality of remediation applications, the BSR has launched a pre‐submission checklist providing practical steps for applicants.

The BSR has also provided its first data on Gateway Three applications. There has been a total of 277 applications submitted to date. Category A and B applications accounted for 80% and the rest were mainly transitional cases, with no new build projects that have gone through Gateway Two yet reaching Gateway Three. In the past 12 weeks, 124 decisions were made in average time of 16 weeks with an approval rate of 86%. For more building safety news, please see our latest Building Safety update.

New Member

We are delighted to welcome Speller Metcalfe as our latest Contractor member. A regional principal contractor with a strong presence across the Midlands and South West, Speller Metcalfe is recognised for innovative and sustainable construction and will help to drive collaboration across the sector and support our work on key industry issues such as building safety.

CIJC Pay Rates

The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) has now confirmed the new pay rates that will apply from Monday 20 July 2026. There is a 3.6% increase in the basic wage rates, as well as increases in travel and subsistence allowances and sick pay. The new rates should be read in conjunction with the CIJC Working Rule Agreement and Holiday Entitlement 2026.

Construction Fatalities

According to provisional statistics published by the HSE, the construction sector accounted for the highest number of fatalities (25) in 2025/26 but this was 32% lower than its annual average of 37 over the past five years. Build UK is the only industry organisation to publish an annual accident report with data for tier one Contractors.

Changes to RIDDOR

Build UK supported the CLC response to the consultation on proposed reforms to RIDDOR. Whilst backing measures to increase reporting requirements, the industry highlighted the importance of clarifying definitions, simplifying the reporting process, and making sure incidents are reported consistently and in a proportional manner.

Build UK AGM – Confirm Your Attendance

We are delighted that Andrew Davies, former Chief Executive of Kier and recently appointed Chair of Southern Water, will be the guest speaker at this year’s Build UK AGM on Wednesday 16 September at the Institute of Directors in London. Andrew will share his experience of the construction sector after a successful career with BAE systems, including growing family‐owned firm Wates before almost taking the helm at Carillion, and then bringing Kier back from the brink in the midst of a global pandemic.

The Build UK Board for 2026/27 will be appointed at the AGM, and Contractor and Trade Association members have until Friday 21 August to submit their vote. Paul Brown (Chief Executive of John Sisk & Son) will continue as Chair after being appointed for a two‐year term in September 2025, and current Board member Jonathan Stockton (Chief Executive of NG Bailey Group on behalf of the Electrical Contractors’ Association) is standing for Vice Chair.

The AGM, which is supported by the People’s Pension, is a chance for members to connect with colleagues from across the supply chain, and please ensure your organisation is represented.

Last Updated: 06/07/2026

Members Discuss Building Safety Regime

The Acting Chief Executive of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), Charlie Pugsley, attended our latest Building Safety call to get feedback from members on the BSR’s priorities, including improving operations and processes at Gateway Two and ensuring safe construction and smooth Gateway Three approvals. He acknowledged the challenge of ensuring consistency for both the BSR and industry, and Build UK has followed up with the BSR to confirm the approach in a number of areas, including Gateway Two and Three applications, the Change Control process, and the maintenance and replacement of fire doors.

Members also had the opportunity to raise other issues related to building safety, including BBA’s accreditation status, which was suspended by UKAS on 26 February 2026. The suspension may last until 25 November 2026 and BBA cannot issue new certificates under UKAS accreditation during this time. Build UK is working to understand the implications and will be publishing a series of FAQs to respond to the queries received from members who use BBA certified products or have management systems certified by the BBA.

Build UK submitted a high‐level response to the consultation on Approved Document B (Fire Safety), reinforcing that the cumulative impact of ongoing regulatory reform on the industry is substantial. We requested that the individual submissions of our members are properly considered as they have the expertise to provide detailed feedback on the proposed changes, which must be proportionate, capable of practical implementation and supported by transitional arrangements.

Our next Building Safety call will be held on Tuesday 29 September and your nominated Building Safety representative will shortly receive the details directly.

Latest Gateway Data Published

The latest data published by the BSR for the period 6 April to 28 June 2026 shows that 368 decisions were made across all Gateway Two application types – including new build, refurbishment (Category A and B) and remediation – with an approval rate of 77%. However, 328 applications (47%) were deemed invalid or withdrawn in the same period.

There are currently 1,505 Gateway Two applications in progress and the number of closed applications (729) was again slightly higher than the number of new applications (705) over the last 12 weeks. The Innovation Unit, which processes new build applications, made 37 decisions with an approval rate of 89% in this period. Thirteen applications were categorised as ‘complex cases’, which are reported on separately, and 17 applications were deemed invalid or withdrawn.

Following a request from Build UK, Category A and B applications are reported on separately from other applications for the first time. There were 237 decisions made with an approval rate of 73%, and 299 applications deemed invalid or withdrawn. There were 85 decisions made on remediation applications with an approval rate of 85%, and 12 deemed invalid or withdrawn. To help improve the quality of remediation applications, the BSR has launched a pre‐submission checklist providing practical steps for applicants.

The BSR has also provided its first data on Gateway Three applications. There have been a total of 277 applications submitted to date. Category A and B applications accounted for 80% and the rest were mainly transitional cases, with no new build projects that have gone through Gateway Two yet reaching Gateway Three. In the past 12 weeks, 124 decisions were made in average time of 16 weeks with an approval rate of 86%.

Temporary Works & Building Safety Act

Following the introduction of the Building Safety Act, there has been a lot of discussion as to whether scaffolding and temporary works are in scope of the Act. To confirm the legal position and support members, particularly in terms of using the Common Assessment Standard, Build UK has obtained advice from Wedlake Bell LLP, which states:

Scaffolding and temporary works are not expressly referred to in the Building Safety Act, but they do come within its scope in relation to raising levels of competence across the built environment industry.
However, they do not fall within the scope of the Building Regulations 2010 which regulate ‘building work’ and the standards that building work must meet, unless the scaffolding and temporary works have some permanence and form part of the structure once the building work is complete.
As a result, the dutyholder and associated competency requirements set out in Part 2A of the Building Regulations are not directly relevant to scaffolding and temporary works.

Build UK member, the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), also contacted the BSR for clarification on whether the Act applies to scaffolding, and the response from the Building Safety Minister confirms the legal advice we have received. The Minister states: “The definition of building work was not changed by the Building Safety Act and so if scaffolding and other temporary works did not require oversight from a building control body prior to October 2023, then they do not require the oversight of a building control body after October 2023. This is true is both HRBs and non-HRBs.”

Confirmation of the position for scaffolding and temporary works in relation to the Building Safety Act does have an impact on the Common Assessment Standard. We are currently finalising the changes for Version 6 to be published later this year, which will include moving the competence‐related questions to the Quality section so that they are completed by all suppliers. Scaffolding and temporary works suppliers should not be required to complete the Building Safety section, unless they are undertaking ‘building work’, and we will confirm in due course the arrangements that will apply until Version 6 is published.

Impact of Building Liability Orders

The first Building Liability Orders (BLOs) have now been issued by the High Court and the implications for groups of companies are significant. BLOs, which were introduced by the Building Safety Act, extend liability for building safety defects to ‘associated’ companies, even where the company that carried out the work has since been dissolved.

The latest BLO was issued by the High Court in its judgment on Mulalley v Sto. It ruled that Sto Limited was the manufacturer and supplier of a defective cladding system and must pay a contribution towards the costs of remedial work. As Sto Limited was placed into administration in 2025, the BLO means that Sto’s German parent company, Sto SE & Co. KGaA, is now liable to pay the contribution.

Earlier this year, a BLO was also issued in the ruling on Crest Nicholson v Ardmore, the ‘profound impact’ of which has resulted in Ardmore Construction Group going into administration. The group could not afford to pay a £14.9 million fine or further potential liabilities, which it became liable for when ‘associated’ company Ardmore Construction Limited went into administration.

Build UK will be bringing together members who have acted as Principal Contractors on projects on Tuesday 28 July for a roundtable discussion on the impact of BLOs, and if you would be interested in joining the meeting, please email us.

Competent Persons

The BSR has published guidance for self‐certification schemes – previously known as Competent Person Schemes – which sets out mandatory requirements for individuals and organisations carrying out regulated work under the Building Regulations, as well as the assessment requirements that self‐certification scheme operators should use to assess individuals and organisations.

Building Safety in Wales

The Building (Higher‐Risk Building Procedures) (Wales) Regulations came into force on 1 July 2026, introducing new requirements for HRB work in Wales. The definition of ‘Higher‐Risk Building’ is different to that in the Building Safety Act and the relevant local authority will act as the building control authority, rather than there being a central building control authority such as the BSR.

Remediation Update

MHCLG has issued its latest monthly data release for cladding remediation programmes for residential buildings 11 metres and over in England. By the end of May 2026, works had been completed on 38% of the 4,411 buildings identified to have unsafe cladding, with works underway on a further 15%.

Fire Strategy Standard

The BSI is consulting on a draft code of practice which provides recommendations for the design, implementation, operation and management of a fire safety strategy throughout the life cycle of a built asset. Members can submit comments on BS 9994 – Fire Strategies in Buildings until Tuesday 18 August.

Passive Fire Guidance

The Passive Fire Knowledge Group is a cross‐industry initiative, bringing together different parts of the supply chain, to focus on investigating and promoting knowledge and research in all areas of passive fire protection. Its dedicated resource hub includes a range of guidance, including for the design and specification of MEP services penetration seals.

Pre‐Insulated Pipes

Build UK member, the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA), has published a technical bulletin on polyethylene foam (PEF) multi‐layer composite pipes (MLCPs), warning that these combustible products are being installed by individuals without the necessary competence, resulting in more cases of overheating and condensation.

Preparing for the Building Safety Levy

The Building Safety Levy will come into operation on 1 October 2026 and contribute to fixing building safety defects across England. It will be chargeable on residential developments that result in at least 10 new dwellings and/or 30 new bedspaces in purpose‐built student accommodation and the creation of new residential floorspace as follows:

The levy will be calculated on the floorspace of the development and charged on applications for Building Control Approval
Local authorities will act as the collecting authority, with different levy rates per square metre for each local authority
The levy will be in addition to any planning obligations, for example Section 106 agreements and the Community Infrastructure Levy
Social housing and support housing residential developments will be exempt from paying the levy
Housing associations will also be exempt, but joint ventures will not unless each party is itself exempt, and members in joint ventures with housing associations should check their arrangements.

The levy will not apply to applications for Building Control Approval submitted before 1 October 2026, including where they are varied after this date. The guidance does not specifically state whether the levy must be paid if an application submitted before 1 October 2026 is deemed invalid or rejected and then re‐submitted after this date, and we have followed up with the BSR for confirmation.

Last Updated: 2/07/2026

Representing Construction Through Uncertainty

We know from conversations with Build UK members across the supply chain that doing business is challenging right now. Rising employment, energy and materials costs, combined with delays in regulatory processes and viability constraints, are requiring even greater focus to maintain the delivery of high‐quality buildings and infrastructure whilst recruiting, training and retaining the skills we need.

Following a stream of consultations and reports from Government, we now have the added disruption of a change of Prime Minister and the inevitable Cabinet reshuffle. At a time when the industry needs certainty, we must focus on what we can control: providing clarity and consistency, improving productivity, and reducing unnecessary duplication across the sector. An agreed and funded pipeline of work is key, as reflected in our 5 Ps to Power Up Construction, and Build UK will be calling on the new Government to maintain the commitment to the 10‐Year Infrastructure Strategy and provide the confidence the industry needs to invest and deliver the economic and social infrastructure required across the UK.

Our priority remains those issues that make a difference to members across the whole supply chain. Whilst this means we cannot engage on every consultation or individual enquiry, it will ensure Build UK is in the best position to shift the dial within the industry and support construction’s vital role in driving long‐term economic growth.

Impact of Steel Trade Measure

The Government’s new steel trade measure came into force yesterday (1 July), reducing steel import quotas by 51%, with imports above these levels now subject to a 50% tariff. Following concerns raised by industry, the reduction is less than the 60% originally proposed, but the cost of delivering projects is still expected to increase significantly.

Price rises of between 14% and 18% are currently being reported on projects, placing even further inflationary pressures on the construction supply chain. Build UK member, the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA), has highlighted that the omission of fabricated steel products from the new quota and tariff framework leaves UK manufacturers facing higher input costs, whilst overseas competitors can continue importing fabricated steel into the UK without equivalent quota restrictions. It is anticipated that clients will be incentivised to move fabrication overseas, putting up to 30,000 UK jobs at risk.

The Government has confirmed that the quotas will be reviewed every 12 months, but the industry is pushing for this to be reduced to six months, warning that businesses are facing unsustainable financial pressures and there is a high risk of insolvencies. There is a transitional arrangement in place, which means that the new quotas and tariffs will not apply to steel under contract before 14 March 2026 and imported between 1 July and 30 September 2026.

Temporary Works & Building Safety Act

Scaffolding and temporary works are not expressly referred to in the Building Safety Act, but they do come within its scope in relation to raising levels of competence across the built environment industry.
However, they do not fall within the scope of the Building Regulations 2010 which regulate ‘building work’ and the standards that building work must meet, unless the scaffolding and temporary works have some permanence and form part of the structure once the building work is complete.
As a result, the dutyholder and associated competency requirements set out in Part 2A of the Building Regulations are not directly relevant to scaffolding and temporary works.

Build UK member, the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), also contacted the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) for clarification on whether the Act applies to scaffolding, and the response from the Building Safety Minister confirms the legal advice we have received. The Minister states: “The definition of building work was not changed by the Building Safety Act and so if scaffolding and other temporary works did not require oversight from a building control body prior to October 2023, then they do not require the oversight of a building control body after October 2023. This is true is both HRBs and non‐HRBs.”

Confirmation of the position for scaffolding and temporary works in relation to the Building Safety Act does have an impact on the Common Assessment Standard. We are currently finalising the changes for Version 6 to be published later this year, which will include moving the competence‐related questions to the Quality section so that they are completed by all suppliers. Scaffolding and temporary works suppliers should not be required to complete the Building Safety section, unless they are undertaking ‘building work’, and we will confirm in due course the arrangements that will apply until Version 6 is published.

Impact of Building Liability Orders

New Pay Rates

The Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC) is expected to introduce new pay rates from Monday 20 July, subject to approval of the proposed increases in travel and subsistence allowances by HMRC. It is anticipated that there will be a 3.6% increase in the basic wage rates and Build UK will circulate an updated promulgation notice with all the new rates as soon as it is available.

Faster Planning Decisions

As part of modernising the planning system, a new AI tool, Extract, has been made available to councils in England, enabling planning officers to convert old planning documents into useable data, which is expected to save 250,000 hours a year manually checking documents. The Government is also piloting another AI tool to cut householder planning application times by half.

ISO 45001 Guidance

The BSI has published a construction specific guide to ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety, outlining how the standard can be used to manage health and safety across larger projects, multiple sites and extensive supply chains. Companies who are certified to ISO 45001 are exempt from completing the Health and Safety section of the Common Assessment Standard.

Local Plan Guide

Following the introduction of a new local plan‐making system earlier this year to reduce planning delays, the Planning Inspectorate has published a new procedure guide to provide greater clarity on how local plans will be assessed under the new system. Local plans are strategic documents created by local planning authorities to guide future development within a specific area.

In Case You Missed It in June…

We brought together Build UK, CECA and FMB members to submit a comprehensive response to the Government consultation on creating a single Industry Training Board, which called for a fundamental reset of the current system.
Acting Chief Executive of the BSR, Charlie Pugsley, joined our latest Building Safety call, giving members the opportunity to provide feedback on the building safety regime directly to the BSR.
Build UK produced its annual report on the Gender Pay Gap of Contractor members to provide an overview of performance and support the work being undertaken on fairness, inclusion and respect (FIR).
We were delighted to welcome Severfield as the latest new member of #TeamBuildUK.
Build UK member JSP hosted a roundtable for members to learn more about recent changes to safety helmet standards, which also reinforced support for Build UK’s Safety Helmet Colours Standard.

Last Updated: 25/06/206

Members Hear from BSR on Building Safety Regime

Thanks to all those members who joined our Building Safety call last week where the Acting Chief Executive of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), Charlie Pugsley, provided an update on the priorities of the BSR, including improving operations and processes at Gateway Two and ensuring safe construction and smooth Gateway Three approvals. Charlie highlighted the challenge of ensuring consistency for both the BSR and industry, and Build UK has followed up with the BSR to confirm the approach in a number of areas, including Gateway Two and Three applications, the Change Control process, and the maintenance and replacement of fire doors.

Members also had the opportunity to raise other building safety issues including.

The consultation on Approved Document B (Fire Safety) will close next Wednesday 1 July, and we would welcome feedback from members to inform the Build UK response. ADB has two volumes and members are advised that the consultation document for V2 was updated on 5 May due to a publication error with numerous changes compared to the original document.
Build UK will also be responding to the call for evidence on a new long‐term strategy for built environment professions, trades and occupations, and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) will be joining our next All Member Forum on Tuesday 7 July to hear members’ views.
UKAS has issued a new statement following its suspension of BBA’s accreditation status on 26 February 2026. It confirms that the suspension may last until 25 November 2026, and BBA cannot issue new certificates under UKAS accreditation during this time. Existing accreditation certificates remain valid until their expiry date.
The BSR has previously issued information on potential structural safety issues affecting reinforced concrete buildings constructed with ‘transfer slabs’, and this was the subject of a recent article by Construction News. Building owners are advised to seek professional advice where a transfer slab shows visible signs of distress or there are specific concerns about the building’s condition and/or design.

Our next Building Safety call will be held on Tuesday 29 September and your nominated Building Safety representative will receive the details directly.

Appointment of New Prime Minister

Following Keir Starmer’s resignation on Monday, nominations to be the next leader of the Labour Party will open on 9 July. The deadline to stand, with the backing of at least 81 Labour MPs, will be 16 July. If there is only one candidate, they will be elected by 17 July, whilst more than one candidate will trigger a leadership contest with the winner to be decided by the start of the next Parliamentary session on 1 September.

With the country looking at its seventh Prime Minister in 10 years, Build UK has highlighted the importance of a smooth transition and the need to refocus on the growth agenda by doubling down on the delivery of homes and infrastructure and reviewing decisions that have put the brakes on business, such as new tariffs, taxes and levies.

Recruiting the Next Generation

CITB’s latest Construction Workforce Outlook shows that the industry will need an additional 206,000 workers by 2030, equating to an average of 41,200 extra workers per year, to support growth in construction activity and sustain workforce levels, with steel and metal workers, civil engineers, and plant mechanics in greatest demand.

With over one million young people aged 16 to 24 currently not in education, employment or training (NEET), there is a huge opportunity for construction to recruit the next generation of workers it needs. The Milburn report revealed that 84% of NEETs want to find a job, education or training, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is expanding its network of Youth Hubs to provide young people with access to training opportunities, careers guidance and mental health support. Almost 180 new locations have been confirmed, which will bring the total to 360 across Great Britain over the next three years, and members that can offer work experience or training placements or support with recruitment events should contact their local Service Leader.

With the Milburn report also highlighting that too many young people leave education with little or no exposure to working environments, Build UK is introducing a more flexible format for Open Doors 2027 enabling events to take place throughout March. Building on the success of recent years, we are keen to provide more opportunities for organisations to open their doors and showcase the wide range of careers available in construction. We will shortly be publishing our Countdown to #OpenDoors27 with the key dates for your diaries.

Changes to Safety Helmet Standards

Build UK member JSP hosted a roundtable earlier this month for members across the supply chain to learn more about the most significant changes to safety helmet standards for 30 years. With manufacturers transitioning to the new requirements in EN 397:2025, employers in construction will need to review how they select and use safety helmets.

JSP provided an overview of the latest version of the standard, which introduces two types of industrial protective helmet: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 helmets are tested for on‐crown impacts, whilst Type 2 helmets are tested for on‐crown and off‐crown impacts. Members discussed the practical implications for construction, including enhanced inspection and testing requirements and the need for employers to review how head protection is selected based on site risks and working practices. For projects involving working on live installations up to 1,000 volts AC or 1,500 volts DC, a safety helmet may also be electrically insulated and certified using EN 50365:2023.

The roundtable, which was supported by People’s Partnership, also confirmed support for Build UK’s Safety Helmet Colours Standard, which is now the recognised standard for construction in the UK. It provides a consistent approach to identifying the roles of individuals on site through the colour‐coding of their safety helmets, reducing duplication and contributing to a safer working environment. For advice on PPE queries, JSP provides a technical helpline which is available free of charge to Build UK members by calling 0199 382 6051 or emailing [email protected].

Hot Weather Guidance

The Government has issued a public health message regarding the risk of heat stress when using PPE in extreme heat. Employers must take steps to protect workers in high temperatures, and fellow CLC member, National Federation of Builders, has published Hot Weather Advice with actions that construction businesses can take to mitigate heat‐related dangers on site and safeguard the health of their workforce.

Home Upgrade Schemes

The Government is consulting on reforming consumer protection for home upgrade schemes, following last year’s damning NAO report on the installation of external wall insulation. Proposals include a new public register of Government‐approved retrofit installers, a new consumer protection service, and enhanced audit and enforcement of retrofit works. The deadline for responses is Thursday 10 September.

Met Police Framework

The Metropolitan Police Service has confirmed that suppliers bidding for its new Building Works Framework 2026 must be certified to the Common Assessment Standard in line with PPN 03/24. The four‐year framework worth £560 million will run from February 2027 until January 2031, with a possible one‐year extension.

Apprentice Employers

Congratulations to those Build UK members who featured in this year’s Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers. Equans, Kier, Laing O’Rourke and Sellafield have all been recognised as the country’s most successful apprenticeship employers in 2026 for their commitment to recruiting, developing and retaining apprentices.

Companies House Changes

Under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, company directors are now required to verify their identity with Companies House. Individuals can complete the process via their GOV.UK One Login and will need a mobile phone with a working camera and photo ID such as a driving licence or passport. It should take around 10 minutes and verified individuals will receive a personal code which they can use for each company they are a director of. Directors must complete the verification process before they submit their company’s next confirmation statement or by 18 November 2026, otherwise they may face enforcement action.

The Government has also confirmed that the accounts reforms set out in the Act will be implemented from 1 April 2028 as follows:

Small companies and micro‐entities will be required to file profit and loss accounts with Companies House, but with the option to opt out of publishing this information on the public register
All companies will be required to file their accounts via commercial software
The option for companies to file abridged accounts will be removed
The number of times that a company can shorten its accounting reference period will be reduced.

In line with the reforms, Companies House will no longer accept web or paper submissions for account filings from 1 April 2028 but will continue to do so for other statutory filings.

Last Updated: 18/06/2026

Build UK Responds to Industry Training Board Reform

Thanks to all those members who joined one of our roundtables or shared their views on the Government’s consultation on merging CITB and ECITB to create a single, unified Industry Training Board (ITB). The Build UK response detailed our expectations for a successful ITB model to support the industry to recruit, train and retain the workforce needed to deliver the UK’s building and infrastructure requirements. By bringing together Build UK, CECA and FMB members, we have been able to present a clear and consistent view from across the industry that a fundamental reset of the current system is required.

Whilst the majority of Build UK members in‐scope to CITB are prepared to continue paying a levy for an organisation that facilitates the delivery of a diverse and competent workforce, there are significant frustrations with the current operation of CITB. Building on recent Consensus processes, Build UK is calling for a ‘Levy In – Skills Out’ system that is industry‐led and accountable to Levy payers – regardless of whether or not the Government goes ahead with the proposed merger.

With the Milburn report highlighting the challenges facing young people today, the construction sector is in a great position to make a difference. This is an opportunity to reset the services provided by an ITB to support employers of all sizes in recruiting, training and retaining the skills needed now and in the future, and Build UK is committed to working with Government and other stakeholders to develop a successful skills system that is fit for purpose and supported by the majority of in‐scope organisations.

The Impact of Steel Tariffs

As part of the Government’s Steel Strategy, steel import quotas will be reduced from 1 July 2026, with products above these levels subject to a 50% tariff. Structural steel prices have risen sharply, compounding the cost increases caused by the war in Iran, and the CLC has published a statement highlighting the impact on construction:

Project viability – Cost increases of between 14% and 18% are being reported on projects, equating to up to £4,000 per unit on residential developments, which is undermining viability.
Supply shortages – It will not be possible to source all steel grades and section sizes from UK steel producers alone, and recent ‘panic buying’ has increased short-term demand and extended procurement lead times.
Job losses – As fabricated steelwork is not included in the new quota and tariff framework, clients will be incentivised to move fabrication offshore, potentially causing 30,000 job losses over the next five to seven years.

Build UK member British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) has taken the lead in discussions, supported by Build UK, and is calling on the Government to include fabricated and semi‐finished steelwork within steel quotas from 1 July, re‐assess quota and tariff levels to reflect current UK production capability, and review the framework within six months rather than 12 months. It is clear that the impact of the Government’s strategy will be felt more severely by businesses than anticipated, and members can use the CLC statement to raise awareness with local MPs.

Mental Health Joint Code of Practice

The CLC has published a new Mental Health Joint Code of Practice to support businesses in construction to create healthier working environments that prevent or reduce mental health risks. With the focus on how work is designed, planned, resourced and managed, the Code is structured around five workplace factors that impact mental health:

Working patterns – Long working hours, poorly planned shift patterns, excessive long‐distance travel and time working away from home
Operational demands – Pressures caused by unachievable deadlines, poor planning and poor communication
People and environment – Limited praise or support from leadership, bullying and harassment, and poor welfare facilities
Financial issues – Late payment, job insecurity and low financial literacy
Barriers to support – Low mental health literacy, low help‐seeking and mental health stigma.

The Code sets out actions that clients and contractors throughout the supply chain can take to address each of these workplace factors. It provides a practical framework to either eliminate the risk entirely or reduce the harm it may cause, with case studies showing how organisations have successfully implemented various measures, including Build UK’s flexible working toolkit. Members across the supply chain are encouraged to implement the Code and use the self‐assessment questions to monitor progress and support continuous improvement.

Alongside the Code, the BSI has recently published BS 30480: Suicide and the Workplace, which provides guidance for companies on supporting employees when prevention efforts reach their limit and intervention is needed. It covers identifying and managing suicide risk in the workplace, strengthening workplace policies and culture around suicide awareness, appropriate training for staff, and supporting individuals in distress.

Late Payments Bill

The Commercial Payments Bill had its second reading in the House of Lords last week and is expected to reach Committee Stage in July. The Bill should receive Royal Assent in early 2027, and Build UK is working closely with the Department for Business and Trade on how the new measures to tackle late payment will be implemented in construction, including the timing of the ban on withholding retentions.

Plug‐In Solar Panels

The Government is consulting on plans to make ‘plug‐in’ solar PV units available for self‐installation in UK homes, and the deadline for responses is Tuesday 30 June. Build UK member Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has previously issued a joint statement with other industry bodies warning of risks to public safety if they are introduced to the market without the necessary regulatory framework in place.

Skills England Report

Skills England has published its first Annual Skills Report which highlights five key challenges facing the skills system and how it intends to respond to them. It has also released sector skills needs assessments for 10 priority occupations, including construction, which reveals that the sector has the largest projected increase in workers but there will be a shortfall of labour by 2030.

Competence in Drylining

Build UK member Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has worked with CSCS Cards to publish a case study showing the ‘route to competence’ for drylining, which sets out the carding journey delivered through CSCS Cards. It also includes a checklist to help other sectors develop their own competence framework, which is one of the key objectives of the Industry Competence Committee (ICC).

Implementing the Employment Rights Act

The Employment Rights Act is introducing significant reforms to employment law, and the Government is consulting on how some of the new measures should be implemented in practice. A consultation on reforming zero hours contracts is seeking views on guaranteed hours, reasonable notice of shifts, and the right to payment for shifts cancelled, curtailed or changed at short notice by Tuesday 25 August. There is also a consultation on the introduction of new rights for employees with caring responsibilities, including paid carer’s leave and a new ‘right to return’ to work after a period of caring, similar to existing maternity leave provisions. The deadline for responses is Tuesday 1 September.

The next set of measures under the Act will come into force in October, including new requirements to prevent harassment of employees by third parties and to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment. The Government’s dedicated webpage includes guidance on all the new measures, along with a timeline for their implementation.

Last Updated: 11/06/2026

Supporting Young People into Work in Construction

The independent report by the Rt Hon Alan Milburn analysing the trends and drivers behind the number of young people aged 16 to 24 not in education, employment or training (NEET) is well worth reading and reinforces why the industry is facing significant skills challenges. With six in 10 NEETs having never had a job, the interim report describes a ‘perfect storm’ of challenges facing young people, including fewer entry level roles, an education system that prioritises qualifications over preparation for work, a rise in mental health conditions, and a welfare system that “pays for what a young person cannot do rather than investing in what they could become”.

Whilst 84% of NEETs surveyed wanted to find a job, education or training, taking on a young person is always a risk for an employer because they are ‘unproven’ and will require further assistance. Last month, Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol attended a roundtable hosted by Skills Minister Jacqui Smith, which discussed the opportunities employers could offer young people and the support required to manage the administration, supervision and cost to keep them in employment for the long term.

As part of ensuring that every young person has access to further education, training or a job, the Government’s ‘Youth Guarantee’ aims to create 200,000 jobs for young people by offering the following support to employers:

Youth Jobs Grant – £3,000 for taking on a young person aged 18 to 24 who has been on Universal Credit and looking for work for over six months – members can pre-register with Jobcentre Plus now and the funding is expected to be available this month
Apprenticeship Incentive – £2,000 for SMEs taking on a new apprentice aged 16 to 24 – the funding can be combined with the Youth Jobs Grant and other financial incentives and will be available from October 2026
Jobs Guarantee – Funding to provide a six‐month paid job for a young person aged 18 to 24 who has been on Universal Credit for 18 months or more – it is currently being piloted in six areas and will be available via Delivery Partners in 25 areas across Great Britain from November 2026.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and CITB are hosting a webinar on Tuesday 23 June at 10:00am to help employers understand the range of support available, and members should email CITB to register.

Latest Gateway Data Published

The latest data on Gateway Two applications published by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) for the period 9 March to 29 May 2026 shows 358 decisions were made across all application types – new build, refurbishment and remediation – with an approval rate of 75%. However, 396 applications (53%) were deemed invalid or withdrawn in the same period.

There are currently 1,445 Gateway Two applications in progress, with the number of closed applications (754) on a par with the number of new applications (750) over the last 12 weeks. Around two‐thirds of all decisions related to Category A and B refurbishment projects. There were 67 decisions made on remediation applications, 79% of which were approved exceeding the target of 65% set out in the BSR’s external remediation improvement plan, with 14 deemed invalid or withdrawn.

The Innovation Unit, which processes new build applications, made 31 decisions with an approval rate of 90% in this period. Nine applications were categorised as ‘complex cases’, which are reported on separately, and 15 applications were deemed invalid or withdrawn. The Innovation Unit has approved just 43 applications since its launch in August 2025, and to support applicants of new build projects, the CLC has added two new guidance notes to its suite on the Building Regulations Compliance Statement and Fire and Emergency File.

Planning Gateway One will mark its fifth anniversary on 1 August 2026 and the BSR has published an article showing the progress that has been made since its introduction. When Gateway One first came into force, the BSR objected to 70% of planning applications on fire safety grounds. This has now reduced to 10%, and the BSR is responding to local planning authority requests for advice within 21 days in 98% of cases.

Construction Gender Pay Gap

A diverse workforce offers significant benefits, including better innovation, improved productivity and higher staff retention, and Build UK collates information each year on the gender pay gap (GPG) of its Contractor members to provide an overview of performance and support the work being undertaken on fairness, inclusion and respect (FIR).

Our latest report for 2025/26 shows that women were paid on average 77p for every £1 men were paid, when comparing median hourly pay. This has improved slightly from 71p in 2017/18 when companies were first required to report their GPG. In 2025/26, women represented on average 38.5% of employees in the lowest pay quartile, compared to 13.9% in the highest pay quartile, with the number of women in the highest pay quartile increasing from 7.5% in 2017/18.

Although the figures are improving slightly year on year, the fact that only 15% of people employed in construction are women means that it will take time and concentrated effort to improve the sector’s GPG. Build UK will continue to support initiatives that help to drive the required changes, including flexible working, mentoring programmes and support for employees affected by menopause.

Building Safety Call

BSR Acting Chief Executive Charlie Pugsley will be joining our Building Safety call next Tuesday 16 June at 8:30am to provide an update on the BSR’s priorities as set out in its strategic plan for 2026/27. Your nominated Building Safety representative should have received an invite, and questions can be submitted via email in advance.

Productivity Standard

The BSI is consulting on a new Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 4010, which sets out the requirements for defining, managing and improving productivity in infrastructure development and delivery. Members can download and submit comments on the draft via the BSI Standards Development Portal until Wednesday 1 July.

Professions Strategy

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is hosting webinars on Thursday 18 June and Monday 22 June to provide an overview of the call for evidence being undertaken to inform the development of a new strategy for built environment professions, trades and occupations. Both webinars will cover the same information, and members should register in advance.

World Cup Checklist

The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off today with matches taking place across multiple time zones, potentially impacting working patterns. To help businesses plan ahead, Build UK Partner Citation has published a checklist with some practical tips on how to manage employee attendance, engagement, and health and safety during the tournament which ends on Sunday 19 July.

Reducing Exposure to Silica Dust

The HSE has published new guidance on working safely with engineered stone to address risks from silica dust. With hundreds of people dying from silicosis each year, the guidance applies to anyone cutting, grinding or polishing engineered stone and sets out the measures that should be taken to control exposure, including using water suppression and mist control, providing suitable respiratory protective equipment, and considering lower silica alternatives.

In addition, the HSE is conducting more than 1,000 workplace inspections of stone fabricators over the next 12 months, and the Health in Construction Leadership Group has set up a dedicated Silica Dust Resources Hub with information tailored for directors, managers and supervisors, and employees.

There is also a consultation underway on proposed changes to RIDDOR, which include expanding the list of occupational diseases that must be reported to include silicosis, and the deadline to submit a response is Tuesday 30 June.

Last Updated: 04/06/2026

Industry Training Board Reform – Build UK Response

Whilst Build UK supports the principle of the ITB model, there is insufficient evidence of the benefits that would be realised from a unified ITB. The majority of members in‐scope to CITB are prepared to pay a Levy for an organisation that facilities the delivery of the diverse and competent workforce required by the industry now and in the future. However, there is significant frustration with the current operation of CITB, and members would like to see a reset of the current model and an industry‐led ITB which is accountable to Levy payers. The Build UK response sets out our expectations for a successful ITB, which we believe should be implemented regardless of whether the Government goes ahead with its proposal for a merger.

With the Government looking for the construction sector to play a major part in offering employment opportunities to young people, we have the chance to achieve the changes we have called for in recent Consensus processes, and please ensure your organisation has its say by emailing us your feedback on the draft response by next Monday 8 June.

For more skills and training news, please see our latest Recruit, Train and Retain update.

Improving Building Control

Alongside its latest progress report on implementing the recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government published the report of the Building Control Independent Panel, which was set up to consider if commercial interests should be removed from building control, along with the Government response.

The report highlights the challenges facing the building control system, including conflicts of interest, capacity pressures, and inconsistent approaches to inspection, enforcement and data, which mean that the system “cannot deliver the assurance, consistency and conflict free oversight that the public deserves”. The Panel recommends creating a single regulatory system for building control, which will remove the client’s ability to select a regulator for their project. The Government response commits to undertaking further analysis of the Panel’s recommendations.

With the latest data on Gateway Two applications showing that Category A and B projects make up two‐thirds of decisions, Build UK has submitted a high‐level response to the consultation proposing amendments to the building control process for work on existing Higher‐Risk Buildings. We highlighted that building work should be categorised based on risk to building safety, rather than the location of the work within a building or its scale, and we recommended that a clear and defined list of building work classified as either Category A or Category B should be developed.

Preparing for Mandatory E‐Invoicing

The Chancellor announced in last year’s Budget that mandatory electronic invoicing will be introduced for all VAT invoices from 2029 to reduce administration and make tax compliance easier and more accurate for businesses, and Build UK and a group of members met with HMRC to discuss how the mandate will be implemented in construction.

Electronic or e‐invoicing is the direct exchange of invoice information in a digital format between suppliers’ and buyers’ accounting systems. It will become mandatory for all VAT invoices, which are typically issued for business to business (B2B) and business to Government (B2G) transactions where VAT is due, and HMRC will standardise the data that must be included in a VAT e‐invoice. The mandate will not impact the payment provisions within the Construction Act as it only changes the manner in which VAT invoices must be sent, not payment notices. The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) will also not be part of the mandate as it does not fall under the VAT Act.

There will not be a central Government platform for e‐invoicing and it will be up to the private sector to develop suitable products that meet the Government’s requirements once these have been confirmed. Build UK will continue to engage with HMRC to help members prepare for the e‐invoicing mandate when it comes into force in 2029

Countdown to InstallerSHOW

InstallerSHOW is returning in force from Tuesday 23 – Thursday 25 June at the NEC, Birmingham. The event will bring together the UK’s built environment sector for three days of exhibitions, live content and networking to showcase the latest products, technologies and solutions across heat, water, air, energy and building technology.

There will be an extensive programme of seminars, including the Building Safety Forum where Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol will be presenting, and more than 900 exhibitors. New for 2026, the show will be co‐located with the Professional Woodworking Expo and the Painting and Decorating Show covering the full trade sector under one roof. Build UK members can discover new products and get the latest on industry trends to help deliver sustainable buildings on the route to net zero.

InstallerSHOW is a Build UK member and the event is free to attend, including parking and networking drinks. Members must register for tickets in advance via the InstallerSHOW website.

New Member

We are delighted to welcome Severfield as our latest new Contractor member. As a global structural steelwork leader, Severfield designs, fabricates and erects steel structures for major construction and infrastructure projects around the world and is keen to partner with the wider supply chain through Build UK to improve delivery and shape policy on the key issues facing the industry.

Build UK AGM

The 2026 Build UK AGM will be held on Wednesday 16 September at the Institute of Directors in London, with guest speaker Andrew Davies, former Chief Executive of Kier and now Chair of Southern Water. The Board for 2026/27 will be appointed at the AGM and any Contractor or Trade Association members interested in submitting a nomination should email Build UK by Tuesday 30 June.

CMA Market Study

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published a market study into rail and road infrastructure, which highlights that a short‐term and fragmented approach to procurement is driving up costs and slowing delivery. It makes a number of recommendations to Government, including publishing a strategic sector plan and mandating compliance with the Construction Playbook.

Data Complaints

Under the Data (Use and Access) Act, all companies will be required to have a process in place for handling data protection complaints from 19 June 2026. The process must include acknowledging receipt of complaints within 30 days and taking appropriate steps to respond to them. The Information Commissioner’s Office has published practical guidance to help businesses meet the new requirements.

In Case You Missed It in May…

Build UK welcomed the introduction of the Commercial Payments Bill to Parliament, which will take forward new measures to improve payment, including a ban on retentions.
With the rising cost of doing business impacting members across the supply chain, Build UK’s annual roundtable with the Bank of England offered a unique insight into the UK economy and the issues affecting construction.
Our review of Open Doors 2026 demonstrated its impact on inspiring the next generation to choose a career in construction.
The Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Delivery Authority became the latest new member to join #TeamBuildUK.
We submitted a response to the Construction Products Reform White Paper, ensuring that members’ views are reflected in plans for a more robust regulatory system for construction products.

Last Updated: 02/06/2026

Industry Training Board Reform – Build UK Response

Following consultation with members across the supply chain, Build UK has developed a draft response to the Government’s consultation on merging CITB and ECITB to create a single, unified Industry Training Board (ITB) to support the skills needs of employers in the construction and engineering construction sectors across England, Scotland and Wales.

Whilst Build UK supports the principle of the ITB model, there is insufficient evidence of the benefits that would be realised from a unified ITB. The majority of members in‐scope to CITB are prepared to pay a Levy for an organisation that facilities the delivery of the diverse and competent workforce required by the industry now and in the future. However, there is significant frustration with the current operation of CITB, and members would like to see a reset of the current model and an industry‐led ITB which is accountable to Levy payers. The Build UK response sets out our expectations for a successful ITB, which we believe should be implemented regardless of whether the Government goes ahead with its proposal for a merger.

With the Government looking for the construction sector to play a major part in offering employment opportunities to young people, we have the chance to achieve the changes we have called for in recent Consensus processes, and please ensure your organisation has its say by emailing us your feedback on the draft response by next Monday 8 June.

To improve transparency during a period of significant change, CITB has published its Business Plan for 2026/27, setting out how it will invest £257.9 million to tackle the industry’s skills challenges so that employers can ‘understand clearly what CITB is doing, why, and what it costs’.

Construction Gender Pay Gap

A diverse workforce offers significant benefits, including better innovation, improved productivity and higher staff retention, and Build UK collates information each year on the gender gay gap (GPG) of its Contractor members to provide an overview of performance and support the work being undertaken on fairness, inclusion and respect (FIR).

Our latest report for 2025/26 shows that women were paid on average 77p for every £1 men were paid, when comparing median hourly pay. This has improved slightly from 71p in 2017/18 when companies were first required to report their GPG. In 2025/26, women represented on average 38.5% of employees in the lowest pay quartile, compared to 13.9% in the highest pay quartile, with the number of women in the highest pay quartile increasing from 7.5% in 2017/18. Although the figures are improving slightly year on year, the fact that only 15% of people employed in construction are women means that it will take time and concentrated effort to improve the sector’s GPG. Build UK will continue to support initiatives that help to drive the required changes, including clear entry points, flexible working and mentoring programmes.

From April 2026, companies can publish a voluntary action plan alongside their GPG figures, outlining the steps they are taking to reduce their GPG and support employees affected by menopause, and this will become mandatory from spring 2027. The Government has also confirmed that it will take forward legislation to introduce mandatory ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting.

Young People and Work

With new figures showing that over one million young people aged 16 to 24 are not in education, employment or training (NEET), an independent report by the Rt Hon Alan Milburn analyses the drivers behind the increase in the number of NEETs, which could reach 1.25 million over the next five years, warning that “we are at risk of a lost generation”.

The interim report explains how the current system is failing young people at a cost of £125 billion a year to the UK economy. With six in 10 NEETs having never had a job, there is a ‘perfect storm’ of challenges facing young people, including fewer entry level roles, an education system that priorities qualifications over preparation for the labour market, a rise in mental health conditions, and a welfare system that “replaces income but does not build pathways” to get people back into education, employment or training.

The report also highlights that whilst 84% of NEETs surveyed wanted to find a job or training, taking on a young person is always a risk for an employer because they are ‘unproven’ and will require further assistance. The final report identifying potential areas for reform will be published later this year.

Creating Futures in Construction

Open Doors Week may be over for another year, but its impact on inspiring the next generation goes on long after the event. With 81% of visitors confirming they were more likely to consider a career in construction after their visit, we have published our review capturing the highlights of this year’s event, and thanks again to everyone who got involved.

With your support, we hosted 240 events across the UK and showcased the wide range of careers available in the industry to over 6,500 visitors between 23 and 28 March. We’re already hearing follow up stories about the opportunities that have been created for this year’s visitors, from work experience to placements and permanent roles. Members are encouraged to list all new entrant opportunities on Go Construct Careers to make it as easy as possible for young people looking for their first role in construction. To find out more about how Open Doors is proving its value as a route into the industry, please see our latest Open Doors update.

Smart Site Guide

Build UK has updated its How to be a Smart Site guide with advice on implementing the CSCS Smart Check API within existing site access systems. The guide is designed to support members to use CSCS Smart Check to ensure individuals have the correct training and qualifications for their job as part of demonstrating competence under the Building Safety Act

CITB Levy Return

CITB has issued the 2026 Levy Return which should be completed and submitted by all in‐scope employers by 30 June 2026, otherwise payment of grant claims may be withheld. Members are advised that this year’s Levy Return requires new information to be submitted on payments made to labour agencies and similar organisations, which is for research purposes only.

Managing Competence

The ICC has published ‘Setting Expectations on Competence Management’, outlining core principles for how organisations should manage the competence of those working for them, which is supported by guidance on putting the principles into practice. Members can access both documents by registering on the Built Environment Competence Hub.

Post‐16 Pathways

The Government has published an implementation plan setting out how it will deliver a reformed system of qualifications for 16 to 19‐year‐olds to provide a choice of high‐quality pathways. New construction qualifications at Level 2 (Occupational Certificates and Foundation Certificates) and Level 3 (V Levels) are planned to be rolled out in the 2028/29 academic year.

Call for Evidence on Built Environment Professions

Alongside its latest progress report on implementing the recommendations from the final report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the Government has published a call for evidence to help inform the development of a new strategy for built environment professions, trades and occupations.

Designed to ensure there is a ‘skilled, motivated, responsible and productive workforce’ to deliver safe and high‐performing buildings, the call for evidence is focused on the systems that govern how individuals and organisations operate. It is structured in five parts, based on the core stages in the lifecycle of a building, and for each lifecycle stage, evidence is sought in relation to six key themes, including skills, knowledge, experience and capability; behaviours, conduct and culture; and accountability and personal responsibility.

Build UK will be submitting a response to the consultation by the deadline of Wednesday 12 August and would welcome views from members.

Last Updated: 21/05/2026

Creating Futures in Construction

Open Doors Week may be over for another year, but we continue to receive fantastic feedback showing that its impact on inspiring the next generation goes on long after the event! With 81% of visitors confirming they were more likely to consider a career in construction after their visit, we are delighted to share our review capturing the highlights of this year’s event, and thanks again to everyone who got involved.

With your support, we hosted 240 events across the UK and showcased the wide range of careers available in the industry to over 6,500 visitors between 23 and 28 March. We’re already hearing follow up stories about the opportunities that have been created for this year’s visitors, from work experience to placements and permanent roles. Members are encouraged to list all new entrant opportunities on Go Construct Careers to make it as easy as possible for young people looking for their first role in construction. To find out more about how Open Doors is proving its value as a route into the industry, please see our latest Open Doors update.

Grenfell Tower Inquiry Update

The Government has published its latest progress report on implementing the recommendations from the final report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. It confirms that another nine of the 58 recommendations have been completed, making 21 in total, with all of them expected to be implemented by the end of 2029 including those that require legislation

Alongside the report, a call for evidence has been published to help inform the development of a new strategy for built environment professions, trades and occupations, designed to ensure there is a ‘skilled, motivated, responsible and productive workforce’ to deliver safe and high-performing buildings. The call for evidence, which is focused on the systems that govern how individuals and organisations operate, is structured in five parts, based on the core stages in the lifecycle of a building. For each lifecycle stage, evidence is sought in relation to six key themes, including skills, knowledge, experience and capability; behaviours, conduct and culture; and accountability and personal responsibility. The deadline to submit a response is Wednesday 12 August.

Government Sets Out Priorities

At the State Opening of Parliament last week, the King outlined the programme of legislation that the Government intends to pursue in this parliamentary session. Highlighting that the UK’s ‘economic security depends upon world class infrastructure’, this year’s King’s Speech covered 35 bills, and the key ones for businesses in construction include:

Commercial Payments Bill – Tackling late payments by introducing new measures such as maximum payment terms of 60 days, mandatory interest on late payments, and prohibiting the withholding of retentions.
Steel Industry (Nationalisation) Bill – Bringing British Steel into public ownership, subject to a public interest test, to safeguard UK steelmaking capacity.
Northern Powerhouse Rail Bill – Improving services between the North of England’s key cities by providing the necessary powers to take forward delivery of Northern Powerhouse Rail when the design has been completed.
Highways (Financing) Bill – Unlocking greater levels of private capital investment in road infrastructure, such as the Lower Thames Crossing, through the introduction of a new Regulated Asset Base funding model.
Remediation Bill – Speeding up the removal of unsafe cladding by introducing a new legal duty to remediate, making product manufacturers pay towards remediation, and mandating how external wall assessments are carried out
Social Housing Renewal Bill – Increasing long-term investment in social housing by incentivising the building of new social rented homes and protecting existing stock.

The Commercial Payments Bill was introduced to Parliament this week with its first reading in the House of Lords. It sets out how existing legislation will be amended to introduce the new payment measures, including the ban on retentions. Once the section of the Bill relating to retentions comes into force, there will be a two-year transition period, during which time retentions can still be used. There will then be a ‘last retention day’ one year after that when all retention monies will become due and must be paid. The Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent in early 2027 and the Government has confirmed that it will consult on the timing for the section on retentions to come into force.

Bank of England Update

Build UK hosted its annual roundtable with the Bank of England last week, which offered a unique insight into the state of the UK economy and the issues affecting the construction sector and impacting the delivery of projects, including cost inflation caused by the war in Iran and the new quotas and tariffs in the Government’s Steel Strategy.

The Bank of England is currently expecting inflation, including wage inflation, to remain at 3.5% for the rest of the year. However, there is significant uncertainty due to current events, with increased fuel and energy costs expected to be felt through the supply chain in Q3. The current data indicates a modest drop in growth across the UK economy, rather than a recession, and interest rates have remained at 3.75% since December 2025. Build UK’s guidance on Managing Price Inflation, produced with the support of Wedlake Bell LLP, sets out how to manage the risks of cost escalation over the life of a project, including the use of fluctuations provisions.

Client and Contractor members reported that viability of projects was a challenge, with businesses carefully selecting investment opportunities, resulting in a slowdown in workload and project starts. Certainty remains key for members of all sizes, which is essential to provide the confidence to invest in people, equipment and technology.

New Member

We are delighted to welcome the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal (R&R) Delivery Authority as a new Client member. Responsible for delivering the R&R Programme for the home of the UK Parliament, the Palace of Westminster, the Delivery Authority is keen to work with the whole construction supply chain to support delivery and create opportunities for skills, jobs and apprenticeships across the UK.

Net Zero Latest

In line with the expanded focus of the Seventh Carbon Budget, the CLC has refreshed its CO2nstruct Zero programme which is now based around six priorities. To support the CLC to collate and report on all the work that is being done across the industry to reduce carbon, Build UK is encouraging members to sign up as Business Champions, and the next round of applications is open until Monday 8 June.

Products Reform

Build UK submitted a high-level response to the Construction Products Reform White Paper, which called for the new General Safety Requirement to be applied to all construction products, so that users have a baseline universal understanding of the obligations of manufacturers to ensure the safety of their products regardless of their route to market.

Specialist Upskilling

ITB has launched a new Specialist Upskilling Fund which will fund up to 10 projects that help employers to develop their workforce and support the uptake of sector-specific NVQs, including concrete operations; fit out, dry lining and plastering; RMI and retrofit; and roofing. Members with relevant experience can apply for funding of up to £35,000 until Tuesday 2 June.

Implementing the Safety Helmet Colours Standard

Build UK’s Safety Helmet Colours Standard provides a consistent approach to identifying the roles of individuals on site through the colour‐coding of their safety helmets, which not only reduces duplication but contributes to a safer working environment. It is now the recognised standard for construction in the UK, and we are keen to see it reflected in images of the industry, as well as on site.

Historically, images of yellow helmets have been used to represent a typical construction worker, but these are not recognised within the standard, and we are encouraging members across the supply chain to support the continued implementation of the standard by ensuring it is reflected in marketing communications and other materials.

The Build UK update will be taking a break after the bank holiday next week, returning on Thursday 4 June with all the latest industry news. We hope you all enjoy the long weekend!

Last Updated: 20/05/2026

Creating Futures in Construction

Open Doors Week may be over for another year, but we continue to receive fantastic feedback showing that its impact on inspiring the next generation goes on long after the event! With your support, we hosted 240 events across the whole of the UK, welcoming more than 6,500 visitors between 23 and 28 March. Highlights included the Minister for Employment joining local jobseekers at Derby Flood Relief, BBC Look North going behind the scenes at Durham Academy, and Buckingham Palace, Edgbaston Cricket Ground and Dundonald International Ice Bowl opening their doors to local college students.

The feedback from students, careers advisors and those looking for a change of career has been overwhelmingly positive, and we are delighted to share our review capturing the highlights of this year’s event. An incredible 81% of attendees confirmed they were more likely to consider a career in the industry after their visit, with inspired visitors stating: “I left knowing that I want to work in construction”.
A huge thank you again to all of you who got involved – it is your hard work and support that enables us to showcase the wide range of opportunities our industry has to offer, and we can’t wait to share details for #OpenDoors27!

Recruit the Next Generation

One of the biggest successes of Open Doors is its ability to help people take the first step on their journey from education to employment in the industry, and we’re already hearing follow up stories from Build UK members and the wider industry about the opportunities they have created for this year’s visitors

From work experience to placements and permanent roles, Open Doors consistently proves its value as a route into the industry. A great example is 17-year-old Cameron from Bristol, who secured work experience following his visit to Oasis Academy, saying: “I’m currently applying for carpentry apprenticeships and to get an experience like this with a carpentry firm straight after Open Doors will really help me to stand out”.

We are directing all this year’s visitors to Go Construct, which provides a one stop shop for young people looking to join the industry. Please ensure you list all your new entrant opportunities on Go Construct Careers to avoid missing out on applicants. You can also help to reinforce the lasting impact of Open Doors by sharing case studies or testimonials from your visitors who have gone on to join the industry via [email protected]

Open Doors 2026 in Pictures 📷

Open Doors Logo

With Open Doors going from strength to strength, we have updated the logo to include the registered trademark symbol. This demonstrates that the logo is trademarked and will help to ensure Open Doors is represented consistently across the industry. If you are using the Open Doors logo, please download the new version, together with the updated brand guidelines, for use going forward.

Enhance Your Support

If your organisation is interested in playing a greater role in Open Doors off the back of this year’s success, then you may wish to consider partnering with us for #OpenDoors27. We will be announcing the dates for next year in due course, and to be involved as an Open Doors Partner from the start, please contact us via [email protected] to discuss the opportunities available.

Last Updated: 14/05/2026

Common Assessment Standard Update

The Common Assessment Standard is reviewed on an annual basis to ensure it remains relevant and up to date, and this process is overseen by the Common Assessment Standard Review Group, which is currently finalising the proposed changes for Version 6 to be published later this year.

The Building Safety section has been mandatory for all companies that carry out design and building work under the Building Safety Act since the current version of the Common Assessment Standard was published on 1 July 2025. Based on feedback from both members and the Recognised Assessment Bodies, companies will have to ‘opt out’ of completing the Building Safety section and provide a statement confirming that they do not carry out work under the Act. The competence‐based questions within this section will also be moved to the Quality section, and there will be additional guidance for suppliers on completing both these and the building safety questions. Other changes will reflect updated legislation and guidance, including fraud prevention and information security.

There is a growing list of organisations across both the public and private sectors using the Common Assessment Standard to demonstrate the organisational capability of their supply chains. Once certified by a Recognised Assessment Body, a company does not need to obtain certification again from any others. Instead, they can agree to share their data at no cost with the other Recognised Assessment Bodies so it is visible to more Contractors and Clients. Certified companies can use the Common Assessment Standard logo on their website and other communications, and members should contact their Recognised Assessment Body for the latest version.

How to be a Smart Site

With CSCS Smart Check recording its 60 millionth scan earlier this year, Build UK has updated its How to be a Smart Site guide with advice on implementing the CSCS Smart Check API within existing site access systems, which provides a quicker and more reliable way of verifying individuals have the right card for the job they are undertaking on site.

CSCS Smart Check is the only platform able to verify all 2.3 million cards carrying the CSCS logo, and Build UK’s guide is designed to support members to use CSCS Smart Check across their projects and supply chains as part of demonstrating competence under the Building Safety Act. As well as ensuring individuals have the correct training and qualifications, the API also offers companies real‐time insights into the skills and occupational mix of their workforce.

Members are reminded that cards are not issued for individuals carrying out non‐construction occupations, visiting site or undertaking informal work experience. However, such individuals may still be required to provide evidence that they can carry out their task safely, and a separate risk assessment and additional supervision may be required.

Continued Delays at Gateway Two

The latest data on Gateway Two applications published by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) for the period 9 February to 1 May 2026 shows 323 decisions were made across all  application types – new build, refurbishment and remediation – with an approval rate of 71%. However, 298 applications (48%) were deemed invalid or withdrawn in the same period.

The BSR confirmed that there are currently 1,367 live applications, with the number of new applications (740) exceeding the number of closed applications (621) over the last 12 weeks. The Innovation Unit, which processes new build applications, made 33 decisions in this period, 73% of which were approved in an average time of 22 weeks. Twelve applications were categorised as ‘complex cases’, which are now being reported on separately, and 9 applications were deemed invalid or withdrawn.

For remediation applications, 81 decisions were made, 72% of which were approved, with 14 deemed invalid or withdrawn. However, the median approval time increased from 36 to 46 weeks, and the BSR stated that it had “successfully made decisions on older applications which have been in the system for some time” and there are now fewer than 20 legacy remediation applications made in 2024 remaining. Build UK’s guidance on Gateway Two sets out all the information that must be included within applications for both new and existing Higher‐Risk Buildings.

Scottish Bank Holiday

To mark Scotland’s participation in the FIFA World Cup this summer, the Scottish Government has announced that Monday 15 June 2026 will be a bank holiday in Scotland. The CIJC has confirmed that the Working Rule Agreement allows for eight paid bank holidays and employers may choose whether or not to recognise this additional bank holiday. Build UK Partner Citation has published guidance members may find useful.

Managing Competence

The Industry Competence Committee has published ‘Setting Expectations on Competence Management’, which sets out core principles for how organisations should manage the competence of those working for them. It is supported by guidance on putting the principles into practice developed by a cross‐industry task group. Members can access both documents by registering on the Built Environment Competence Hub.

Unfair Dismissal

Under the Employment Rights Act, the qualifying period for unfair dismissal will be reduced from two years to six months from 1 January 2027. The change will be retrospective, meaning any employee with six months service by that date will qualify. Build UK Partner Wedlake Bell has published guidance on the steps that employers should be taking now to prepare.

Jobs Guarantee Pilot

As part of the Government’s ‘Youth Guarantee’, the Jobs Guarantee is now being piloted in six areas across Great Britain, offering a fully subsidised six‐month paid job to 18 to 21 year olds who have been on Universal Credit for 18 months or more. Any members interested in providing jobs for eligible young people should contact the lead Delivery Partner for the relevant area.

Environmental Update

The Government has announced that Environmental Outcomes Reports (EORs) will replace Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) to support planning applications by the end of 2027. EORs aim to streamline the assessment process, with a new outcomes‐based approach intended to provide clarity as to whether a project supports the delivery of environmental objectives. The Government will be developing EOR templates and guidance to make it clear what will be required to show the delivery of outcomes in an EOR.

The Government has also confirmed that a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain (BNG) will apply to all applications for development consent for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) submitted on or after 2 November 2026. BNG has been mandatory for developments subject to the Town and Country Planning Act since February 2024.

The BSI has published a revised version of ISO 14001, the recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems, to reflect new global priorities, including climate resilience, biodiversity and sustainable resource use, whilst strengthening existing requirements such as change management procedures and evaluating environmental management system effectiveness.

Last Updated: 07/05/2026

Build UK Focuses on Cost of Doing Business

The rising cost of doing business is front and centre of our discussions with members, Government and other stakeholders. A combination of war in the Middle East, increases in taxes and levies, and the new Employment Rights Act and other legislation has led to significant increases in the cost of delivering construction projects, and Build UK has written to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray MP, urging the Government to maintain delivery of the Infrastructure Pipeline whilst reviewing contractual arrangements to ensure that the risk of inflation is shared appropriately.

With the latest update from the CLC’s Material Supply Chain Group revealing that the cost of building materials has already increased by around 5.1% this year, Build UK’s guidance on Managing Price Inflation, produced with Wedlake Bell LLP, sets out ways to manage the risks of cost escalation over the life of a project which are fair and proportionate to all parties, including the use of fluctuations provisions.

Build UK has supported the CLC in calling for a delay in the introduction of new limits on tariff‐free steel imports, which could lead to cost increases of up to 40%. Build UK member, the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA), has highlighted that many steel products are not being manufactured, or are only available in limited quantities, in the UK, and as a result of our concerted action Ministers have committed to work with industry to identify potential solutions before the tariffs take effect from 1 July. We are also calling for a delay in the Building Safety Levy as that will further increase housing costs if implemented from 1 October as planned.

Build UK is working with the CBI to demonstrate the impact of the increased cost of doing business on employment opportunities, investment and growth across construction and the wider economy, and members across the supply chain are asked to complete this short survey by tomorrow (Friday 8 May).

Improving Payment Performance

Build UK updates its payment performance table every month with the latest results published under the Reporting on Payment Practices and Performance Regulations. Our tier one Contractor members are currently paying invoices in an average of 29 days, down from 45 days when the table was first launched in 2018, with 97% paid within 60 days.

New reporting requirements on retentions will take effect for the majority of the industry in July, and Build UK recently led a ‘pilot’ for Contractor members to share their results for the first quarter. As well as enabling members to test their internal data collection process, it identified a number of queries regarding the way the data should be reported, and we are working with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) to ensure members report on a consistent basis. The Build UK payment performance table will be updated from the end of July to show the amounts that Contractors and Clients withhold in retentions from their suppliers.

The Government’s response to the Late Payments Consultation outlined new measures to tackle late payment, including a ban on the withholding of retentions, which are expected to be taken forward as part of a Late Payments Bill introduced in the King’s Speech next Wednesday 13 May. Build UK is working closely with DBT on the implementation of the measures, including how they interact with the Construction Act, and Fergus Harradence, DBT’s Deputy Director for Construction, Logistics, Airports & Water, will be joining a meeting of our Trade Association members on Thursday 14 May to provide an update on the next steps. 

Construction Products Reform

Thanks to those members who have shared their views on the Construction Products Reform White Paper. There is clear support for a more robust regulatory system for construction products that ensures manufacturers have clear duties for which they are held accountable and that users are provided with accurate and reliable information.

Under the current proposals, the requirements will differ depending on whether a product carries a CE or UKCA mark or is unmarked. The draft Build UK response calls for the General Safety Requirement to be applied to all products, so that users can have a baseline universal understanding of the obligations of manufacturers to produce safe products. However, we have flagged that the current plan to enact the General Safety Requirement later this year, and for it to come into force next year, is unlikely to provide sufficient time for the industry to prepare. Members are invited to review the Build UK response and submit feedback by next Wednesday 13 May. More building safety news, including the latest data on Gateway Two applications published by the Building Safety Regulator, can be found in our Building Safety update.

Enter the Building Awards 2026!

Build UK is delighted to be supporting the Building Awards again this year, and entries are open across 20 categories until Friday 22 May. The awards are a fantastic opportunity for #TeamBuildUK to showcase your achievements and the hard work and innovation of your teams over the last 12 months, and it is free to register to view the entry criteria.

Several Build UK members went home with a trophy in 2025, including Berkeley Group (Housebuilder & Housing Developer of the Year), Kier (MMC Award and Net Zero Award), Morgan Sindall (Delivering Social Value Award), Multiplex (Major Contractor of the Year and Retrofit Project of the Year), and Turner & Townsend alinea (Digital Excellence Award). Build UK Board Member, Katy Dowding (Skanska UK), was also crowned CEO of the Year!

The Building Awards 2026 will be presented on the evening of Tuesday 3 November at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London and tickets will go on sale shortly.

CITB Levy Return

CITB has issued the 2026 Levy Return which should be completed and submitted by all in‐scope employers by 30 June 2026, otherwise grant claims may be withheld. Members are advised that this year’s Levy Return requires new information on payments made to labour agencies and similar organisations, which is for research purposes only.

No Falls Week

A number of Build UK Trade Association members are partnering with No Falls Week from Monday 18 to Friday 22 May to promote safe working at height. Falls from height are the most common cause of fatal injuries in construction, and the HSE‐backed campaign includes free resources on reducing accidents, such as toolbox talks and posters.

In Case You Missed It in April…

Another two new members joined #TeamBuildUK, Bovis Construction (Europe) Limited and Clarion Housing Group.
Build UK welcomed the Government’s response to the Late Payments Consultation, which builds on the progress made by members across the supply chain to improve payment performance.
Paul Ruddick, Chair and Founder of Reds10 and Flexi‐Job Apprenticeship Agency K10, joined our Forum meeting to present the K10 apprenticeship model, as part of our plans for a national Construction Apprenticeship Network.
We responded to the Skills England consultation on skills passports, recommending that CSCS is the model that is adopted for construction.
Build UK published its annual accident survey report showing that tier one Contractor members had lower injury incidence rates than the wider industry.

Last Updated: 06/05/2026

Construction Products Reform – Build UK Response

Thanks to those members who shared their views on the Construction Products Reform White Paper at our Building Safety call last week. There was clear support for a more robust regulatory system for construction products that ensures manufacturers have clear duties for which they are held accountable and that users are provided with accurate and reliable information. However, there was a concern that the current proposals only address parts of the system and will not provide assurance that products are ‘safe’, particularly as the requirements of manufacturers will differ depending on whether the product carries a CE or UKCA mark or is unmarked and subject to the proposed General Safety Requirement for Construction Products.

In line with feedback from members, the draft Build UK response calls for the General Safety Requirement to be applied to all construction products, so that users can have a baseline universal understanding of the obligations of manufacturers to produce safe products. However, we have flagged that the current plan to enact the General Safety Requirement later this year, and for it to come into force next year, is unlikely to provide sufficient time for the industry to prepare. Members are invited to review the Build UK response and submit feedback by next Wednesday 13 May.

Our next Building Safety call will be held on Tuesday 16 June and your nominated Building Safety representative will shortly receive the details directly.

Building Safety Consultations

With the Government aiming to close out 70% of the recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry by the end of 2026, a number of consultations are currently being undertaken by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) on various aspects of the building safety regime.

‘Category A’ and ‘Category B’ Building Work – Thursday 28 May
MHCLG has proposed amendments to the building control process for work on existing Higher‐Risk Buildings (HRBs) to ensure that the process is proportionate.
Conditions of Authorisation – Friday 5 June
The BSR is consulting on the criteria that underpin Government‐authorised self‐certification scheme operators, such as Competent Person Schemes, to ensure they remain fit for purpose.
Plan Approval Requirements – Thursday 11 June
MHCLG aims to introduce more stringent building control requirements for new homes and work to existing dwellings below 18 metres where the Fire Safety Order applies.
Fire Risk Assessors – Thursday 18 June
MHCLG is seeking views on regulating the fire risk assessor profession, including defining the role and establishing mandatory competence requirements.
Approved Document B – Wednesday 1 July
The BSR has proposed a number of changes to the guidance on fire safety, including for external walls systems and balconies, and the provision of evacuation lifts in residential buildings above 18 metres.

Build UK is preparing responses to the consultations relevant to the majority of our members, and if you would like to contribute or provide feedback, please email us. We have also updated our Building Safety Timeline to include those consultations that will shape the building safety regime going forward, with the call for evidence on the regulation of built environment professionals expected to be published this quarter.

Latest Gateway Two Data Published

The latest data on Gateway Two applications published by the BSR for the period 9 February to 1 May 2026 shows that 323 decisions were made across all application types – new build, refurbishment and remediation – with an approval rate of 71%. However, 298 applications (48%) were deemed invalid or withdrawn in the same period.

The BSR confirmed that there are currently 1,367 live applications, with the number of new applications (740) exceeding the number of closed applications (621) over the last 12 weeks. The Innovation Unit, which processes new build applications, made 33 decisions with an approval rate of 73% in this period. Twelve applications were categorised as ‘complex cases’, which are now being reported on separately, and 9 applications were deemed invalid or withdrawn.

For remediation applications, 81 decisions were made, 72% of which were approved, with 14 deemed invalid or withdrawn. The BSR highlighted that it had ‘successfully made decisions on older applications which have been in the system for some time’ and there are now fewer than 20 legacy remediation applications made in 2024 remaining.

Remediation Update

With the latest data on Gateway Two applications showing that the median approval time for remediation applications has risen to 46 weeks, compared to 22 weeks for new build applications, remediation is identified as a priority in the BSR strategic plan 2026/27 and its external remediation improvement plan is designed to speed up applications.

Measures outlined in the plan include establishing a new external remediation multi‐disciplinary team (MDT), which mirrors the Innovation Unit for new build applications, and using ‘Approval with Requirements’ so that projects can start while technical issues are resolved. The plan also identifies common gaps in remediation applications, including insufficient evidence of fire‐resistance properties in replacement cladding and a lack of structural loading calculations.

MHCLG has issued its latest monthly data release for remediation programmes for residential buildings 11 metres and over in England. By the end of March 2026, remediation works had been completed on 35% of the 4,322 buildings identified to have unsafe cladding, with work underway on a further 21%. The next data release will be published on 27 May.

Managing Competence

The Industry Competence Committee has published ‘Setting Expectations on Competence Management’, which sets out core principles for how organisations should manage the competence of those working for them. Members can access the guidance by registering on the Built Environment Competence Hub.

Building Liability Orders

The High Court has issued the second Building Liability Order (BLO) in its ruling on Crest Nicholson v Ardmore. As part of the verdict, the High Court confirmed the key principles for determining when it is ‘just and equitable’ to issue a BLO and that adjudicators can issue BLOs as part of their decisions.

PAS 2000

PAS 2000 ‐ Bringing Safe Products to Market, sponsored by the OPSS, sets out a practical framework for manufacturers to demonstrate that they have taken all reasonable steps to ensure their products are safe for their intended uses, as part of promoting a culture of safety across the construction supply chain.

Residential PEEPs

Under the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations, which came into force on 6 April 2026, Responsible Persons must implement Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) in all high‐rise residential buildings and in medium‐rise buildings with an evacuation strategy.

Devolved Nations Update

Scotland – The Scottish Government has passed legislation introducing a Building Safety Levy in Scotland from 1 April 2028 to fund its remediation programme. The new Levy will apply to newly built properties, including build to rent homes and student accommodation, with exemptions for social and affordable housing and homes built on islands. To support SME developers, the Levy will not apply to the first 29 new builds a year, and the rates will be confirmed in June.

Wales – The Building (Higher‐Risk Building Procedures) (Wales) Regulations will come into force on 1 July 2026, introducing new procedural requirements for HRB work in Wales. The definition of a ‘Higher‐Risk Building’ is different to that set out in the Building Safety Act, and a building in Wales will be classified as an HRB where it is at least 18 metres in height, or at least seven storeys, and contains at least one residential unit or is a hospital, care home or children’s home. The relevant local authority will act as the building control authority, rather than there being a central building control authority such as the BSR.

Northern Ireland – The Building (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) came into force last year requiring the provision of suitable automatic fire suppression systems and fire safety information in certain buildings, and the Northern Ireland Executive is consulting on other measures to improve the safety of high‐rise residential buildings in Northern Ireland.

Click here to view the PDA’s archive of Build UK information.