Government Promises ‘Seismic’ Reforms to Unlock Biggest Building Boom in a Generation

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Government Promises ‘Seismic’ Reforms to Unlock Biggest Building Boom in a Generation
A major overhaul of the UK’s planning system has begun, with the government promising the “biggest building boom in a generation” through a raft of reforms aimed at accelerating housebuilding and infrastructure projects. The Planning & Infrastructure Bill, which is being introduced to Parliament today, is designed to streamline the planning process, remove barriers to development, and support the government’s target of delivering 1.5 million new homes. Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Housing Angela Rayner hailed the Bill as a “seismic” change that will “get Britain building again” by cutting through bureaucratic delays and legal challenges that have slowed development for years.

Major Reforms to Planning & Development

The Bill introduces a new national planning policy framework, setting out a clearer, more structured approach to decision-making on new housing and infrastructure. Key measures include:
  • Planning Committee Overhaul – New rules will set out which types of planning applications are decided by local officers and which go to the committee. Councils will also be able to set their own planning fees to cover costs, while mandatory training will be introduced for planning committee members.
  • Nature Restoration Fund – Developers will be able to offset environmental damage by contributing to a new fund that will finance nature restoration in alternative locations.
  • Compulsory Purchase Reform – Landowners will no longer receive compensation for ‘hope value’—the assumed future value of land with planning permission—when their land is acquired for development.
  • New Towns & Development Corporations – The government will establish new development corporations with enhanced powers to drive the creation of new towns.
  • Strategic Planning Framework – A new spatial development strategy will allow regional mayors and local authorities to coordinate growth across multiple areas, ensuring that housing and infrastructure development go hand in hand.

Infrastructure & Energy Projects to be Fast-Tracked

The Bill also aims to accelerate major infrastructure projects, particularly in transport and energy, by reducing legal hurdles and simplifying approval processes.
  • Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) – The approval process for NSIPs will be streamlined, cutting back on bureaucracy and limiting legal challenges to a single court attempt for cases deemed ‘meritless’.
  • Transport Planning Reform – Amendments to the Highways Act and Transport & Works Act will remove planning barriers for road and rail projects, ensuring quicker progress.
  • Faster Renewable Energy Connections – A new “first ready, first connected” system will replace the existing grid connection model, reducing waiting times of up to 10 years for wind and solar power projects.

£250 Energy Bill Discounts

In a bid to mitigate local resistance to new electricity transmission infrastructure, households living within 500 metres of new pylons will receive up to £250 off their energy bills per year for a decade. Additionally, developers will be required to invest in local communities, funding projects such as sports facilities, educational programmes, or leisure centres. The government estimates that one upcoming project—SSEN Transmission’s power line between Tealing and Aberdeenshire—could see local communities receive £23 million in funding for local initiatives.

Rayner: ‘We Are Backing the Builders’

Deputy PM, Angela Rayner
Unveiling the reforms, Angela Rayner said: “We’re creating the biggest building boom in a generation as a major step forward in getting Britain building again and unleashing economic growth in every corner of the country. By lifting the bureaucratic burden that has held back developments for too long, we are backing the builders, taking on the blockers, and delivering the homes and infrastructure this country so badly needs.” She added that the reforms would directly address the housing crisis, ensuring that not only aspiring homeowners but also families stuck in temporary accommodation would benefit from increased housebuilding. The Bill will now begin its passage through Parliament, with both industry and opposition figures expected to scrutinise its implications in the coming weeks.

Industry Reaction

Clive Dickin, CEO of the NASC said: “We fully support the government’s ambitions and agree we need to see reform of the planning system. But while this a good start, there remain plenty of other structural challenges that will potentially hold back economic growth, not least major workforce shortages. Until we address the skills shortages across the construction sector, including a major lack of scaffolders, many of the projects the government wants to see kick-start economic growth won’t get off the ground.”

Blenheim Palace Scaffolding Works Featured on ITV News

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Blenheim Palace Scaffolding Works Featured on ITV News
Blenheim Palace, one of the UK’s most treasured landmarks, is undergoing a £12 million roof restoration project, with scaffolding set to dominate its landscape for the next 18 months. As revealed in an ITV News report, this extensive conservation effort aims to protect the nationally significant ceiling artwork by Sir James Thornhill, which has suffered substantial rainwater damage, mould, and structural cracks. The scaffolding works, including a massive temporary roof, are being carried out by Allen & Foxworthy Ltd and are expected to be completed by autumn 2025. However, the full restoration of the roof will continue into autumn 2026. This complex project is critical in safeguarding the 18th-century masterpiece, which sits just an inch beneath the deteriorating roof structure. The ITV news report highlighted that Blenheim’s Great Hall’s historic ceiling painting is severely threatened. Years of heavy rainfall and snowfall, exacerbated by climate change, have resulted in leaks, wood rot, and failing infrastructure. Buckets strategically placed inside the palace catch the constant drips while urgent measures are being taken to stop further deterioration.

Scaffolding Not Just a Necessity, But an Experience

While scaffolding has become an essential feature of the palace, it is also being celebrated rather than hidden. Blenheim Palace is turning this restoration into an interactive visitor experience, launching a “Scaffold Experience” on May 1, 2025. This unique attraction will allow visitors to ascend the scaffolding to witness the conservation work up close, enjoy breathtaking views of the estate, and gain insight into the meticulous efforts behind the palace’s preservation. Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has undergone continuous roof repairs for over 200 years. The current 18-month scaffolding phase marks one of the most ambitious projects in its history.
Credit: ITV News
While disruptions are unavoidable, keeping the palace open to its one million annual visitors remains a top priority. A spokesperson for Blenheim Palace stated: “We don’t just tolerate scaffolding anymore; we celebrate it. Without our visitors, we wouldn’t be able to fund crucial restoration projects like this.” The scaffolding will remain a defining feature of Blenheim Palace until autumn 2026, ensuring that this iconic landmark remains protected for the next 75 years and beyond.

CITB Unveils £1.15bn Investment Plan to Tackle Construction Skills Crisis

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
CITB Unveils £1.15bn Investment Plan to Tackle Construction Skills Crisis
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced a £1.15 billion investment as part of its Strategic Plan 2025–29, aiming to tackle the construction industry’s growing skills gap and improve training accessibility. With the UK facing a shortage of skilled workers, CITB’s strategy focuses on attracting new talent, enhancing training provision, and supporting employers in developing and retaining their workforce. The plan includes:
  • £554 million to promote careers in construction and attract new entrants.
  • £315 million to support businesses in upskilling their workforce.
  • £137 million to simplify training routes and increase accessibility.
CITB CEO Tim Balcon emphasised the importance of industry collaboration: “The construction sector is vital to the UK economy, and we need to ensure we have the workforce to meet demand. Our investment will make training more accessible and support businesses in developing skilled workers.” The initiative aims to deliver 1.5 million new homes and major infrastructure projects while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry. CITB has also pledged to engage with over 5 million potential new entrants and provide direct funding support to over 35,000 employers. With an expected annual levy income of £239 million, CITB plans to drive a 5% increase in employer confidence in training availability, helping to close the skills gap and secure the future of UK construction.

Scaffolding Company Hit with £30,000 Fine Over Safety Lapses

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Scaffolding Company Hit with £30,000 Fine Over Safety Lapses
A Merseyside scaffolding company has been fined £30,800 after an investigation found workers had been using an unsafe scaffold at a construction site in Merseyside. A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd, based in Kirkby, was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after inspectors identified serious failings in the erection of a scaffold tower at a block of flats on Rice Hey Road in May 2021. An investigation found that the company had failed to follow proper assembly instructions, and workers accessed the scaffold by climbing its framework rather than using a ladder. The lack of a safe means of access contravened HSE guidelines designed to prevent falls from height – one of the leading causes of serious workplace injuries in the construction sector. The HSE launched its inquiry following the death of 45-year-old Robert Duffy, an employee of A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd, who suffered serious injuries while working at the site. Mr Duffy died in hospital three days later. However, the prosecution was not brought on the grounds that the unsafe scaffold was directly responsible for his death. A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The firm was fined £30,800 and ordered to pay £5,040.75 in costs at Wirral Magistrates’ Court on 27 February 2025. Following the sentencing, HSE inspector Sam Eves said: “A.I.M Access Solutions Ltd did not ensure the tower scaffold was constructed correctly. The company failed to provide a safe way to get to and from the work platform, for example using an appropriately designed internal ladder.” He urged companies to follow HSE guidance to ensure that similar work is “effectively planned, managed, and monitored” to protect workers from unnecessary risks. Each year, multiple injuries occur due to improperly erected scaffolds or the lack of adequate safety measures. The HSE warns that incidents are often caused by defects in scaffold structures or a failure to follow manufacturer instructions regarding bracing and height limitations. The prosecution was led by HSE senior enforcement lawyer Daniel Poole, with support from HSE paralegal officer Helen Hugo.

New Support Platform Tackles Mental Health Crisis in Construction

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
New Support Platform Tackles Mental Health Crisis in Construction
A new initiative designed to tackle the mental health crisis in the construction industry has been launched, offering discreet and accessible support to workers facing stress, anxiety, and financial struggles. HappiHub, founded by former builder Steve Anderson, is a mental health platform that aims to break down barriers preventing construction workers from seeking help. The platform’s unique approach, including a 24/7 anonymous support tool called HappiBot, is already being used by major firms such as London Fire Solutions, MCS Group, Glencar, and Wrenbridge Sport.

A Silent Crisis in Construction

The construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. Figures suggest that workers are four times more likely to take their own lives compared to the general population, with 7,000 suicides recorded in the sector alone. Experts say long hours, job insecurity, and a work culture that prizes resilience over vulnerability all contribute to the crisis. Steve Anderson, 42, knows this struggle firsthand. A former construction business owner, Mr. Anderson battled addiction and lost a friend to suicide. His experience led him to study Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and pursue a Psychology degree, ultimately founding HappiHub to provide workers with the kind of support he once needed.

“Telling Men to Talk Doesn’t Work”

Speaking about the industry’s mental health challenges, Mr Anderson said: “After my own stint in rehab and losing a friend to suicide, I started to realise the approach of telling these ‘Alpha males’ that they have to talk doesn’t and won’t ever work. We needed to find out what the roadblock is to why they don’t talk in the first place and give them the discreet tools and support to get them to feel safe. That’s when we see amazing results happen.” HappiHub aims to meet workers where they are—on-site, at home, and through their mobile phones—offering tools that don’t require face-to-face conversations but still provide vital help.

A New Approach to Mental Health

At the heart of HappiHub’s offering is HappiBot, a confidential, 24/7 chatbot designed to provide instant mental health support. Unlike traditional Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), which often go unused due to stigma, HappiBot allows workers to seek help anonymously, addressing issues such as:
  • Mental health and stress management
  • Financial concerns
  • Sleep and nutrition guidance
  • Support for addiction recovery
Companies using the platform also receive monthly impact reports to help them understand how mental health initiatives are improving their workforce’s well-being.

Breaking the Stigma, One Conversation at a Time

Mental health in construction has long been a taboo subject, with many workers fearing judgment or repercussions for speaking up. Industry leaders, however, are starting to recognise that tackling mental health is not just about supporting individuals—it’s also about improving safety, reducing absenteeism, and retaining skilled workers. HappiHub’s early success suggests that a shift is underway. With backing from leading firms and a growing awareness of the industry’s mental health crisis, there is hope that construction workers may finally have access to the support they need—on their terms. For Mr Anderson, this is more than just a business; it’s a mission. “I’ve seen what happens when people suffer in silence,” he says. “We’re changing that.”

Benchmark Scaffolding Celebrates 30 Years at the Top

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Benchmark Scaffolding Celebrates 30 Years at the Top
Benchmark Scaffolding is celebrating 30 years in business, marking three decades of delivering some of the most complex and high-profile scaffolding projects across the UK. Founded in 1995, the company has built a reputation for reliability, innovation, and a no-compromise approach to safety. Over the years, Benchmark has been involved in some of the country’s most recognisable projects, including long-term works at the Palace of Westminster, the award-winning temporary roof structure at Stowe School, and the transformation of Battersea Power Station. The company has also played a role in major projects at Selfridges on Oxford Street, the Old Stock Exchange, and the Empress State Building. Managing Director Rob West said the success of Benchmark has always come down to the people behind it. “From the guys on-site to the engineers, managers, and office staff, everyone plays a part in making Benchmark what it is today. Their skill, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile are what set us apart,” he said. The industry has changed dramatically over the last 30 years, and Benchmark has adapted with it—embracing new technologies, improving safety systems, and staying ahead of the curve in a competitive market. However, according to Mr. West, some things have never changed. “Our focus has always been on doing the job properly—delivering quality work, keeping people safe, and building strong relationships with our clients. We’ve faced challenges like everyone else, but we’ve always come out stronger.” Looking ahead, Benchmark has no plans to slow down. “Thirty years is a huge milestone, but we’re not stopping here,” he added. “We’re excited for what’s next and ready to keep raising the bar.”

HAKI Safety Expands into Ireland with New Sales Office

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
HAKI Safety Expands into Ireland with New Sales Office
HAKI Safety has announced its expansion into the Irish market with the opening of a sales office in Dublin. The move is part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its European presence, particularly within the system scaffold sector. The new office will enhance HAKI Safety’s ability to support customers engaged in commercial real estate development and maintenance. While a local distributor will continue to supply HAKI Safety’s portfolio of work zone safety products—including catchfans and barrier systems—the company’s direct presence in Ireland will enable it to better understand and meet market demands. Thomas Schüller, Chief Commercial Officer of HAKI Safety, highlighted the opportunity in Ireland, “There is market potential in Ireland that we want to take advantage of. The investment brings us closer to customers who are primarily active in exploiting and maintaining commercial real estate. With this establishment, we gain a direct presence in the country and can better understand and meet the specific needs of our customers.” HAKI Safety’s expansion into Ireland is part of a wider growth strategy. The company has recently strengthened its sales teams in Slovakia and Croatia, leading to new business opportunities. Additionally, HAKI Safety has leveraged its experience in Scandinavian e-commerce to launch online sales in the UK last autumn, with plans to expand into France this summer. Market trends in Ireland have been favourable for HAKI, with a notable shift from traditional tube and fitting scaffolding to system scaffolds—a core area for the company. Demand is also increasing for work zone safety products such as fall protection systems, stairways, and barrier systems, a sector in which HAKI Safety has seen substantial growth through acquisitions.

NASC to Launch Digital CISRS Card App by Early 2026

Daniel Norton
-
0
NASC to Launch Digital CISRS Card App by Early 2026
Scaffolders across the UK will soon have their CISRS cards available at their fingertips, thanks to a new digital app set to launch by early 2026. The NASC has confirmed that a groundbreaking mobile app will allow cardholders to store their CISRS cards digitally on their smartphones. The app will provide instant access to qualifications, training records, and certifications, streamlining the verification process for employers and site managers. The app will include contactless scanning technology, enabling real-time credential checks on-site. This innovation is part of a wider six-figure digitisation project undertaken by the NASC and CISRS to modernise and simplify member services. The development was revealed by NASC CEO Clive Dickin during an exclusive interview with ScaffMag at NASC’s headquarters in London. He said: “We are aiming to have that in by the beginning of 2026… You will have exactly the same capability to have this card as you would your car key on your phone.” He continued: “This app will be a game-changer for operatives and employers alike. Forgotten or lost cards will become a thing of the past, and employers will have instant verification of operatives’ qualifications at their fingertips. It will bring a new level of convenience and efficiency to the industry.”
Scaffolders across the UK will soon have their CISRS cards available at their fingertips, thanks to a new digital app set to launch by early 2026.
NASC is also developing a general app that could host a range of guidance documents
The new digital system is expected to significantly reduce administrative burdens on both employers and operatives while ensuring up-to-date compliance information is always at hand. This development is part of a wider plan by NASC and CISRS to digitise their services. Clive Dickin also revealed that NASC is developing a general app that could host a range of guidance documents, safety alerts, and other industry resources, making it a central hub for many scaffolding professionals. More updates to follow..

Altrad Appoints Julie Nerney as New Board Advisor

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
Altrad Appoints Julie Nerney as New Board Advisor
Altrad has announced the appointment of Julie Nerney as Board Advisor to its UK, Ireland, Nordics & Poland Executive Board. She will formally take up the role in April 2025. With over 30 years of experience in driving strategic change across multiple industries, Nerney brings a wealth of expertise in leadership, governance, and transformation. She has held senior roles as CEO, COO, and Director, successfully guiding organisations through various stages of growth, including mergers and acquisitions. A key highlight of her career includes her leadership role in managing transport operations for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She has also served as a Non-Executive Director and Chair for several high-profile organisations, including the UK Supreme Court, UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, and Sussex County Football Association. Altrad’s CEO for the UK, Ireland, Nordics & Poland, John Walsh, welcomed her appointment: “Julie’s wealth of experience, broad sector exposure, and passion for building high-performing, inclusive teams will bring fresh perspectives to our Executive Board. We look forward to her contributions and the positive impact she will make on our strategic direction.” In addition to her leadership roles, Nerney is a published author and guest speaker at Oxford’s Saïd Business School, known for her insights into governance and organisational change. Her appointment comes as Altrad continues to strengthen its executive team to drive further growth and development across its operations in the region.

BSI Revises Temporary Works Standards for Safer Construction

Scaffmag Newsdesk
-
0
BSI Revises Temporary Works Standards for Safer Construction
Updated safety standards for temporary works in construction have been published by the British Standards Institution (BSI), providing clearer guidance to help ensure structures remain safe and stable during building projects. The revised BS 5975:2019 standard has now been split into two parts, each focusing on different aspects of temporary works – from management procedures to the design and implementation of falsework. BS 5975-1:2024 Part 1 outlines best practices for planning and overseeing temporary works. It highlights the importance of training, clear processes, and strict control measures to ensure these structures are properly designed, built, and dismantled. Meanwhile, BS 5975-2:2024 Part 2 focuses on falsework – temporary structures that support buildings until they can hold their own weight. The updates include new guidance on stress limits, design principles, and safety checks to reduce risks on site. The latest changes also introduce:
  • Stronger wind force calculations to improve stability.
  • Updated stress and limit state design guidance for falsework.
  • More tailored safety measures for projects of different sizes and complexities.

“A Big Step Forward for Safety”

Anthony Burd, Director of Built Environment at BSI, says these updates are a major step forward for the industry. “These revised standards will help improve safety and efficiency across construction projects,” he said. “By providing clearer guidance on managing temporary works and designing falsework, they’ll help professionals reduce risks and make sure structures are properly controlled.” He added that the changes reflect the latest advancements in the industry, reinforcing the importance of strong safety measures, proper training, and well-thought-out design. Further information can be found here: BS 5975-1:2024 and BS 5975-2:2024.
1...345...312Page 4 of 312