What exactly is PSNFL?: Explaining the new headline target for government debt

The Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced that the Government will use a broader definition of debt for its fiscal target, Public Sector Net Financial Liabilities (PSNFL), referred to by government as ‘net financial debt’. Jessica Barnaby explains how that statistic is defined and how it differs from the metric used before.  

One of the main fiscal targets of the government has been to reduce the level of debt. Debt can be defined in different ways and estimates of these definitions are presented every month in our Public Sector Finances publication. This includes estimates of the public sector balance sheet, which shows the financial position at a single point in time and sets out the liabilities (amounts owed) and the assets (amounts owned) of the public sector, in line with international statistical guidance. 

The previous main debt measure used as a fiscal target was ‘public sector net debt excluding public sector banks and excluding the Bank of England’ (‘PSND ex BoE’ for short), as a proportion of GDP. This measure covers not just the debt of central government but also local councils and state-controlled companies (such as Network Rail or the BBC).  This is also a ‘net’ measure because the public sector’s liquid assets (effectively money in the bank) are netted off against liabilities. It largely reflects the stock of outstanding gilts (bonds issued by HM Treasury) that have funded past spending, and PSND ex BoE currently stands at around £2.6 trillion (equivalent to around 91% of GDP). It is typically expressed as a ratio to nominal GDP, so is affected both by changes in debt levels as well as the pace of economic growth. 

However, beyond the scope of PSND ex BoE, the public sector has both many more liabilities and many more assets. For example, it owns financial assets such as shares (for example, the Government’s remaining shareholding in the NatWest Group) and money is owed to it, (such as from student loans expected to be repaid).  

A wider balance sheet measure that the ONS already produced and which the government has chosen to target today is known as ‘public sector net financial liabilities excluding public sector banks’ (‘PSNFL ex’). It includes the Bank of England and looks at a broader range of financial assets than PSND ex BoE, including the illiquid financial assets such as the examples listed above. 

This broader statistic also captures a wider range of financial liabilities, such as liabilities for public sector funded pensions and those known as ‘accounts payable’, which covers payments that are owed but haven’t yet been paid by government. 

PSNFL ex, currently £2.4 trillion or equivalent to around 84% of GDP, is £0.2 trillion smaller than PSND ex BoE, as the extra assets included in this measure are larger than the extra liabilities. You can read more about this wider metric in this article. 

The ONS will continue to publish both these and other fiscal metrics, all produced independently and in line with international statistical guidance.

See Also: Construction Industry Budget Response

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Construction Industry Budget Response

Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)

“The Government’s continued support for the construction industry through increased investment in the Affordable Homes Programme and the commitment to infrastructure delivery is welcome.

“Our research shows that under the Government’s homebuilding plans, up to an additional 152,000 workers will need to be found, and this doesn’t include the quarter of a million additional construction workers we need to meet all forecasted construction demand through to 2028. The homebuilding and infrastructure delivery challenges can’t be addressed without evolving and improving the skills system as a whole – for example, improving the pipeline of workers and ensuring a shared understanding of competence between industry, Government, and CITB is defined. This is why CITB has been working collaboratively and at pace with the Government and industry to develop interventions to meet the construction workforce skills needs to deliver its homebuilding ambitions.

“A strong pipeline of apprentices and construction workers is required to build the millions of homes we need, and key to achieving the Government’s ambitions is to get the right skills policies in place. It is essential that the new Growth and Skills Levy drive up construction apprenticeship numbers that have declined under the Apprenticeship Levy. Last year CITB helped over 29,000 apprentices during their courses.

“However, apprenticeships aren’t the only route into a career in construction, and we need to ensure we’re making all the available pathways into the industry clear and accessible for people, including upskilling and identifying transferable skills from other industries. We’re ready to work with Government, industry, and training providers to ensure that the coordinated reforms are put in place to drive sustained growth in the construction industry.”

 

Angharad Truman, ARLA Propertymark President comments on the increase to Stamp Duty for second homes:

“We continue to see a growing disparity in the number of private rented homes available against a backdrop of increasing demand from tenants. Therefore, it is disappointing to see that the UK Government did not address this fundamental issue in its Autumn Budget and instead has announced yet another blow for landlords by increasing Stamp Duty on second homes.

“The private rented sector plays a crucial role in housing the nation with over 4.6 million homes in England alone, therefore it is imperative that the UK Government does not continue to push landlords out of the market.

“In order to ultimately keep people in much needed and affordable private rented homes, we continue to stress the importance of support for the private rented sector including incentives for landlords to invest rather than continuing to penalise them through regulatory bombardment and increasing costs.”

 

Commenting in response to the Government’s confirmation that it will commit funding to begin tunnelling work to Euston for HS2, Alex Vaughan, CEO at Costain, said:

“This is positive news that gives certainty and clarity for the UK’s largest and most complex infrastructure programme. Having the HS2 railway connected to Euston, in the heart of London, will be vital for the programme to deliver its many benefits, and will act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the Euston area.

“Shaping, creating and delivering complex, transformative infrastructure demands effective planning, clear decision-making, and collaboration between the industry, government and regulators. The UK needs to reset its relationship with infrastructure by committing to a ten or 20-year plan overseen by a dedicated Minister for Infrastructure. This will enable essential infrastructure to be delivered more productively, whilst providing consistency and continuity of demand for investors and the supply chain.”

 

Thomas Balashev, Founder and CEO of Monta Capital, commented:

“Investors can breathe a sigh of relief with the exemption of buy-to-let properties from capital gains tax in the Autumn Budget. Tax hikes would have had a significant impact on the UK real estate market, potentially prompting a rush to sell properties, disrupting market activity and stifling investment in development, with smaller investors and local economies being hit particularly hard.”

“From an institutional real estate standpoint, this policy is a clear signal for ongoing investment in commercial real estate (CRE) projects. With the stability of tax policies, institutional investors can feel confident allocating capital to long-term ventures, reinforcing the UK’s position as a key player in the global market. Predictable regulatory frameworks give firms the confidence to plan ahead, focusing on sustainable urban regeneration, expanding mixed-use developments, and breathing new life into underused assets. Steady market conditions also help to address the ongoing supply-demand challenges in key sectors like industrial, office, and retail spaces, creating a positive environment for growth and innovation.”

 

Fraser Stewart, Co-founder of Lyfeguard said

“Labour repeatedly outlined in their manifesto that they would not raise Income Tax, NI or VAT but clearly, this promise did not cover employers’ National Insurance payments. This change will be felt hardest by small businesses who will feel the direct impact of this increase in tax contributions.”

“However, the Business Tax roadmap is an encouraging move from Reeves, enabling businesses to understand Labour’s direction of travel with sufficient time to plan for what might be coming. What we need now is a growth roadmap, with Labour demonstrating a clear commitment to SMEs within the UK.”

 

Stuart Munton, Chief for Group Operations & Technology at AND Digital commented:

” The Introduction of the Data Use and Access Bill marks a pivotal moment in harnessing the power of data to enhance both public services and economic growth. Data is increasingly becoming a cornerstone for both public and private sector innovation and is driving efficiencies that were once unimaginable.”

“But while it presents significant opportunities for innovation and efficiency, it will require strict security considerations and skilled professionals to manage data responsibly and protect privacy. By implementing robust security measures, ensuring data transparency and upskilling the workforce to handle data ethically, businesses will thrive under this new legislation.”

 

Richard Steer Gleeds Chair responds to Chancellor’s Budget

“This was a budget designed to put election rhetoric into economic strategy and having had more leaks than the Manchester United defence, there were few surprises. Our sector is one of the largest employers’, and hikes in Nat Insurance and increases in Labour costs are going to dampen the appetite for recruitment in an industry that already needs to employ just under 251,500 workers by 2028 to just stand still.  Funding for bringing HS2 to London was sensible and I wait to see details on refurb plans for the Schools, Roads and Health. But the budget did little to persuade me that they treat our challenges on training, retention, planning reform and meeting net zero targets with any more seriousness than the last government. Finally it is worth noting that Aerospace and Car manufacturing sectors were supported with funding by the Chancellor. Construction has a greater impact on the economy than both these sectors combined.”

 

Matt Gregory, Managing Director Northern Europe at Körber Supply Chain Software 

“The lack of specific measures of support for the logistics sector in today’s Autumn Statement is disappointing, given the crucial role that it plays in supporting the UK economy. This approach could negatively impact innovation at a time when we need it most.”

“To meet complex supply chain challenges, more needs to be done to improve resilience and agility. The first step is demonstrating the viability of a career path in logistics. We should be seeking to build the workforce and skills we need as a country to continue to compete on a global scale. The lack of industry collaboration, through targeted education programmes, or specific schemes to enhance our skills in emerging technologies like AI, harms our position as a key global supply chain leader.”

“Announcements regarding key infrastructure projects also require significant investment in the supply chain. Technology and data analytics are key to ensuring the real-time coordination of materials, equipment, and personnel across complex networks. Further clarity is needed on how the government intends on building the supply chain processes, technologies and talent needed to deliver these projects within budget and on time.”

 

COO of epIMS, Craig Cooper, commented:

“Landlords have been haunted by a string of legislative changes in recent years, all of which have been designed to dent the profitability of their bricks and mortar portfolio, so it’s reassuring to see that second homeowners and buy-to-let investors have escaped unscathed from today’s capital gains tax hikes.”

 

Siân Hemming-Metcalfe Operations Director at Inventory Base, comments:

“While we understand the government’s aim to increase tax revenues, we welcome the move not to apply capital gains tax increases to landlords and second homeowners.

Had it done so, it would have hindered many landlords from expanding their portfolios, which would have further restricted supply across the private rental sector and accelerated the exodus of landlords, causing even more distress to tenants who are already finding it hard to find somewhere to call home.”

 

CEO of OpenBrix, Adam Pigott, commented:

“Great to see that landlords didn’t bear the brunt of the Budget tax burden today. The rental market is already in crisis due to the severe imbalance between supply and demand and further penalising landlords would have only intensified the issue further.

An increase in stamp duty on second home purchases will leave a sour taste though, as it will see an increase in costs for those looking to invest within the sector, although it’s unlikely to deter them from doing so.”

 

Founder and CEO of Atomic Consultancy, Lucy Noonan, commented:

“We waited for what could have been a chilling Halloween eve Budget from a Chancellor seemingly with her sights set on taxing aspiration.

However, whilst Capital Gains Tax has been hiked, Business Asset Disposal Relief stays at just 10% albeit rising to 14% in April. This could have been a lot worse and may enthuse potential business sellers to seek a buyer now before the rate increases.

The two other negatives for property businesses, an increase in stamp duty to 5% on second homes and an increase in the minimum wage meaning slightly higher pay costs perhaps, are surely outweighed by a property market that is about to get busier given likely further cuts in the Bank of England borrowing rate.

There’s a reason to be positive here.”

 

CEO of Yopa, Verona Frankish, commented:

“With no stamp duty relief extension granted today many homebuyers will be in for a fright should they look to purchase from March of next year.

Whilst many first-time buyers will still benefit from a stamp duty free purchase should they remain within the previous £300,000 threshold, many existing homebuyers won’t be so lucky.

Those existing buyers purchasing over the value of £250,000 are set to be hit by the maximum increase in tax which will see an additional £2,500 added to the already high cost of home buying and ownership.”

 

Director of Benham and Reeves, Marc von Grundherr, commented:

“It’s a case of trick not treat for homebuyers following today’s Budget, as they’ve once again been shown the cold shoulder, with the government refusing to extend current stamp duty relief thresholds.

Whilst this won’t deter homebuyers from pursuing their aspirations of homeownership, it will add to the cost of purchasing for the vast majority, particularly those climbing further up the ladder.”

 

CEO of Octane Capital, Jonathan Samuels, commented:

“The property market is in very good shape, driven by significant improvements across the mortgage sector in recent months. So a lacklustre Budget was always on the cards with respect to homebuyers and sales market incentives.

With Budget uncertainty now behind us, it should mitigate any temporary fears on the side of lenders and continue to drive the market forward.

Of course, it remains a delicate balancing act and we could see lender appetites soften due to today’s changes to National Insurance contributions, particularly if the result is a softer employment market.”

 

MD of Alexander Hall, Richard Merrett, commented:

“Whilst largely forecast to be a painful one, today’s Budget saw little in the way of property market penalties, with landlords and second homeowners, in particular, escaping a capital gains tax increase.

The lack of a stamp duty relief extension for homebuyers will obviously come as a disappointment, but it was largely to be expected given the fact that the property market has been going from strength to strength so far this year.

With at least one more interest rate cut expected before the year is out, the forecast remains extremely positive and it’s fair to say that no government intervention was needed to ensure its future prosperity, although today’s Budget was a somewhat missed opportunity to help stoke the fires.”

 

Co-founder and CEO of GetAgent.co.uk, Colby Short, commented:

 

“Yet another Budget with nothing for homebuyers to write home about other than a regurgitated pledge to get Britain building.

Whether or not these housebuilding ambitions are ever realised is another matter and based on the track record of Labour’s predecessors, a fair degree of scepticism is understandably justified.

The property industry will certainly feel that today was another wasted opportunity to focus more on improving the home moving process as a whole and for the benefit of buyers and sellers.”

 

Gemma Young, Moverly CEO, comments:

“Today was a chance for the government to double down on its plans to improve the property landscape for all involved in what is one of the most expensive sales the average person is likely to be involved in.

Improvements in areas such as the provision of upfront information can help better qualify buyers, reduce the time it takes to sell and, most importantly, reduce the threat of a transaction falling through. The result being a smoother, faster, more cost-effective transaction process for buyers and sellers, which can only be a positive thing.

Unfortunately, it seems as though improving the experience of buying and selling a home wasn’t front of mind for the government today, which is disappointing to see.”

 

Melanie Pizzey, CEO and Founder of the Global Payroll Association, says:

“The government may claim to have kept its pledge not to directly increase taxes for working people, however, the decision to maintain the freeze on tax thresholds is, in effect, the same as increasing the rate of tax.

The continued fiscal drag due to these measures will pull more workers into higher tax brackets and, when combined with other existing legislation, will create severe cliffs for some working families.

What’s more, they will also be deprived of an increase in their tax free allowance, something that should be uprated in line with inflation, and this will act as a huge disincentive to take that promotion, or to put in overtime, even if it’s sorely needed.

Of course, the impact of fiscal drag could well be minimised should workers fail to see their earnings increase in the first place. This is a very real possibility given the fact that businesses have not only been hit with an increase in the National Living Wage and National Insurance employer contributions – although there will be exemptions for small businesses.”

 

Jason Ferrando, CEO of easyMoney says:

“ISAs form a crucial part of the investment landscape in the UK and allow the average person to make their money work harder for them by facilitating investment into a range of accessible products.

Today’s decision to not to reduce the tax-free allowance will be welcomed by thousands of ISA investors, helping to boost their long-term financial ambitions.”

 

Andy Mitchell, managing director at the sustainable energy revolution pioneers, 21 Degrees.

“Today’s Autumn Budget delivered by the new Labour government missed a vital opportunity to address energy efficiency in homes – a gap that is becoming increasingly hard to justify in light of the current climate crisis, as well as the proven benefits of efficient homes for health, comfort, and reduced energy consumption.

The chancellor announced investment into the building of over one million new homes, but research by Passivhaus Trust shows that almost all new builds fall short of even the basic energy standards by over 60%, with the minimum requirements already low. Now, more than ever, there is a need to champion high-performing homes.

Budget measures could have incentivised better standards, such as reduced stamp duty for energy-efficient properties or enabling local authorities to allocate land at preferential rates for high-performing homes. This not only improves urban resilience but also attracts investment and boosts regional economies.

The chancellor also highlighted that energy security is vital. Bringing every home in the UK up to an EPC standard C would save the estimated energy equivalent of the output of up to four nuclear power stations. That’s why it’s time to approach retrofit projects as critical infrastructure investments – by focusing on existing housing, the government could reduce energy demand significantly, improve public health, and alleviate NHS pressures due to the benefits of thermal comfort, sound insulation, and mental wellbeing.

The recently announced Warm Homes Plan could go some way to improving existing rental homes, but more needs to be done to improve the performance of the homes of the entire nation.

Addressing energy demand at the household level not only strengthens energy security but also aligns with national goals for sustainability and public welfare.”

 

AI / Cyber / data expert, Alina Timofeeva’s reaction to today’s Autumn Statement

“Innovation” was made a key priority in the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget with more than £20 billion funding for the science sector. I welcome the public investment in the UK – however, it is disappointing to not hear about plans to protect the cybersecurity needed so desperately for our country, given the recent scandals including the NHS, Harvey Nichols, Revolut and the Post office. We also did not hear concrete steps for the government to support London becoming the AI capital of the world. We had promises from the Conservatives to grow AI, Quantum, Innovation agenda before.

Innovation offers opportunities to drive new investment from private business into the UK, creating wealth for the country and countless new jobs. The UK has the world’s best graduates, respect for the rule of law, and, importantly, now the much-needed political stability that innovation needs to thrive.

 

Foxtons CEO, Guy Gittins, commented:

“Landlords across the nation have been impacted by a raft of legislative changes in recent times and so they will be delighted to see that Capital Gains Tax increases have not been applied to the sale of residential property portfolios.

We’ve already seen buy-to-let investors return to the lettings market and today’s Budget should reassure many more to remain within the sector. This is good news for tenants across the capital in particular, as it will deliver desperately needed additional stock back to the market.

That said, the additional stamp duty charged on the purchase of second homes will add to the upfront costs of investing for those looking to grow their portfolios, however, the scale of the increase is unlikely to deter landlords considering the long term gains of this asset class.

Homebuyers will be understandably disappointed, but not surprised, about the lack of a stamp duty relief extension, with the current thresholds set to revert back as of March next year. However, as they have already factored this into their purchase plans we do not expect it to impact the strong demand we’re currently seeing in the market.

Today may not have been the Autumn Statement we were hoping for, but it has been what we largely expected.

As a result, we can expect the heightened level of market activity seen this year to continue, with market momentum strengthening as we head into 2025, further elevated by forecast interest rate reductions.”

 

Commenting on the Autumn Statement and its impact across the housing market, Daniel Austin, CEO and co-founder at ASK Partners

“Following today’s Budget, there is good news for property developers. The promise of £5bn of investment for new homes contained within today’s announcement will be warmly welcomed. Increased supply should buoy the market and level out values; a plus for first time buyers, who conversely will be hit by the new lower stamp duty thresholds. Further, it was encouraging to hear specific reference of help being offered to SME housebuilders, who can unlock smaller projects to revitalise towns and cities, and the help for cities such as Cambridge to meet its potential as an area rife for property development amidst key life sciences campus developments, and the homes needed for the workers this attracts.

“The decision to not include buy-to-let properties in the Capital Gains Tax increase will also be well received. The exodus of buy-to-let mortgage holders has been heaping pressure on the UK rental market causing prices to rise due to a lack of supply. However, the wave of private landlords selling off properties ahead of the Budget may offer a short-lived upside in supply of properties for sale. We have already seen a rise in mortgage approval rates back to levels previously seen before Truss’ mini-Budget. The impact on the rental market should entice developers of schemes such as co-living and build-to-rent to fulfil the lack of supply, provided planning reforms allow.

From an investment standpoint, private landlords who have already decided to sell their property portfolios will have significant capital available for redeployment. Even those initially planning to reassign this capital may now be exploring alternative real estate investment opportunities. Property debt strategies, which have been continuing to gain traction, present a compelling alternative. These strategies allow investors to avoid CGT on interest received, as the returns are taxed as income rather than capital gains, providing an added layer of protection from any potential future changes to CGT rules. If CGT liabilities were to increase, more investors could turn to these flexible, income-based strategies, offering both financial efficiency and continued exposure to the real estate market.”

 

Dr Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive, LGIU, said:

“The Chancellor billed this as an historically consequential budget of hard choices. That’s certainly true in many areas with £40bn of tax rises announced and significant changes to the government’s debt rules.

For local government, however, it is a budget of choices deferred. It could have been worse – there’s an additional £1.3bn in funding including money for social care and additional funding for housing and special educational needs: the very areas that are driving many councils to bankruptcy.

But this extra funding is not even half the gap that councils currently face.

The longer-tem change that the sector desperately needs is all deferred for now. We are waiting on the Local Government Finance Settlement, on the Devolution White Paper and on a broader redistribution of funding through a multi-year settlement from 2026-27.

There were some welcome highlights: retaining 100%  of right to buy receipts and integrated settlements for Greater Manchester and the West Midlands and possibly for other places in future.

Is this a start? Yes. Is it enough? Not by a long shot. At least not yet. There’s a positive direction of travel set out, but there’s a long way to go and the pressure on council finances means there’s a real risk that some councils will not be able to hang on long enough to get there.”

 

Paul Gaze, HAE (the Hire Association) EHA’s CEO, said this afternoon:

“We are relieved that extending Full Expensing for hired assets remains under active consideration, albeit disappointed that members cannot make use of this incentive from today and start planning their investments in new equipment.

“As a capital intensive sector, which epitomises the circular economy, extending Full Expensing would support the transition to Net Zero and enable fresh investment in newer, more efficient equipment. Delivery of the capital projects announced today will depend on the hire sector to provide the assets required to build, repair and maintain.”

 

Andrew Carpenter, CEO of the STA commented:

“This is welcome news indeed and the structural timber sector is poised to support delivery of these plans. We applaud the focus on social housing, as well as the recognition that planning can be an obstacle in housing growth. The news that the Government will set out to recruit hundreds more planning officers should go a long way to alleviating that issue.

“Overall, this is a good starting point from which the industry can move forwards, but we would urge the Government not to miss the huge opportunity that is presented by aligning house building ambitions with the country’s pressing environmental challenges. With such high targets, achieving this rapid upscaling while also meeting net zero obligations will require a fundamental change in how we build, the materials we use, and the way we attract new people into the construction industry.

“Increasing the use of sustainable materials such as timber and adopting efficient offsite construction methods is the best solution to delivering the Government’s aspirations. Looking ahead, we would welcome adoption of the proposed Part Z to the Building Regulations to further support reduction in embodied carbon, leading to more low carbon sustainable homes.”

 

Nathan Emerson, CEO at Propertymark, said:

“Whilst it is understandable that the UK Government needs to find more revenue, the increase in the Stamp Duty surcharge for second homes will not help increase demand for rented property at a time where homes are desperately needed to compete with ever-growing demand from tenants.

“Considering this Government is committed to Net Zero, it is going to be hard for landlords and homeowners to meet the UK Government’s MEES targets without help via loans and grants.

“Furthermore, the hike in national insurance contributions could hit many property agents who are trying to ensure that they are maintaining a steady cash flow while paying their employees a decent wage.

“However, it is encouraging to see that the UK Government is investing money to end dangerous cladding following the Grenfell Inquiry, something Propertymark welcomes. We look forward to continuing working with the UK Government as they move these plans forward.”

 

Shelagh Grant, Chief Executive of The Housing Forum, said:

The Housing Forum welcomes today’s announcements on funding for new housing. Our members from across the housing sector work together to increase the quality and supply of housing, including affordable housing. We know how badly these new homes are needed to address rising levels of homelessness and enable everyone to have a quality home. We are particularly pleased to see conformation of the Right to Buy discounts being reduced and councils given the full receipts to reinvest – as these are measures we have been calling for to give councils confidence to build and increase the supply of much-needed new homes.

 

Dr David Crosthwaite, chief economist at BCIS, said:

“Reeves announced £100 billion in capital spending over the next five-years with the mantra “invest, invest, invest” but I’m not convinced this is a budget for growth.

“There are conflicting announcements, and as it stands the investment outlined in the Budget is unlikely to make a material difference to the construction sector and “get Britain building again” – a stated aim of the Government.

“I was hoping for something a little more radical, but perhaps that will come in the Spending Review next spring.

“We really need the Government to invest in fixed capital programmes that will actually “get Britain building again” and drive wider economic growth. Four months in and this feels like a missed opportunity for the new Government.

“The Government did announce spending on construction projects, such as schools, social housing and transport to name a few.

“However, it still remains unclear how the Government intends to meet its self-imposed target of building 1.5 million homes over the life of the Parliament, without tackling the existing skills shortage.

“The resurrection of the HS2 link from Old Oak Common to Euston is a positive move, but we need more commitment to other infrastructure projects in the pipeline with the Lower Thames Crossing project a prime example.”

 

In response to today’s Budget announcement, ECA Chief Operating Officer Andrew Eldred said:

“ECA welcomes the Chancellor’s commitment to invest in industry, housing and electric transport. And her commitment to refocus levy funding away from Masters’ degrees towards trade apprenticeships, as announced earlier this year. These steps align with our call for a skills system that delivers on the practical needs of integrating green technologies for net-zero.

“However, this budget lacks crucial detail on how it will support skills access for smaller firms, which make up 99% of the electrical contracting sector. These businesses will now also carry the higher burden of Employer National Insurance and higher apprentice costs.

“As outlined in our Charter to Recharge Electrical Skills, a system responsive to local and future demand is essential, as is industry’s role in shaping pathways and qualifications that lead directly to employability. Robust support for green skills is critical to preparing a workforce that can meet the demands of the net-zero transition, and we urge government collaboration with industry to close regional gaps and build a strong, skilled talent pipeline.”

 

Viki Bell, Director of Operations at the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), commented:

This budget brings some positive developments for the UK’s engineering and construction sectors, especially with the £6 billion allocated to R&D in engineering. This investment, alongside the £520 million for a life sciences manufacturing fund and £20 billion committed to R&D, has the potential to support new technology, improve equipment safety, and encourage more sustainable practices—essential elements to keep UK construction competitive on a global scale. Such funding could open doors for both SMEs and OEMs as we work to meet the demands of modern infrastructure projects. The government’s renewed commitment to rail, road, and infrastructure development is a promising step for the construction equipment sector.

The commitment to resume HS2 construction to London Euston, the pledge to invest and maintain hospitals, and the investment in 300 new planning graduates all signal a strong focus on essential infrastructure and housing reform. This investment in the planning workforce is encouraging, but projects of this scale will still require sustained funding, coordinated planning, and broader industry support to be delivered effectively and on time.

The investment in 11 green hydrogen projects is another positive step, supporting the transition to cleaner energy and encouraging sectors like ours to consider alternative fuels. Despite these positive moves, it’s disappointing to see limited direct financial relief for construction firms.

Doubling the employment allowance to £10,500 helps smaller construction equipment firms by reducing National Insurance liabilities, however, the planned increase in employer National Insurance from 13.8% to 15% in April 2025, coupled with the reduced secondary threshold from £9,100 to £5,000, is a double blow for firms. These added costs are likely to strain budgets and limit opportunities for new hires or expansion, putting significant pressure on SMEs and OEMs at a time when stability and investment are critical. While we welcome the forward-looking approach, more targeted support is essential to help our sector fully contribute to these ambitious goals.”

 

Rebecca Wilkinson, Business Tax Partner and Property and Construction sector specialist at Menzies LLP:

“Private landlords holding rental portfolios can breathe easier, as CGT rates on residential property sales remain at 24%. With no-fault evictions ending and new rent control rules on the horizon, many landlords are considering exiting the buy-to-let market. Fortunately, they can now do so without facing raises to CGT.

However, a SDLT surcharge hike from 3% to 5% for companies and second-property buyers may dampen demand. Landlords hoping to sell with tenants in place may struggle to find fewer buyers, as higher SDLT makes buy-to-let properties a less attractive prospect.

Property developers will also be subject to higher rates of SDLT. This, coupled with rising labour and national insurance costs, could cause delays to the government’s target to build more affordable homes. Financing new projects may also tighten with the CGT rate on share sales rising from 20% to 24%, deterring high-net worth individuals and overseas investors who often fund UK projects due to favourable tax rates, and may well look elsewhere.”

 

Rory MccGwire, founder of Start Up Donut

“This government appears committed to addressing the tough financial realities they’ve inherited, and for that, I commend them.

However, it’s ironic that the hardest-working segment in our country – families who run small businesses – are being hit the hardest by these ‘Make Work Pay’ changes. While I’m relieved the Employment Allowance offers some relief for the smallest businesses, who often struggle the most with covering their costs and complying with the seemingly endless rules on tax and employment, the recent focus on ‘protecting the workers’ has created a sense of a ‘them-and-us’ divide in this Budget.

Small businesses account for 48% of employment in the UK, yet this approach seems to pit employees against their employers. For many, the risks, workload, and challenges of running a small business may start to feel like they no longer match the limited rewards.”

 

Sarah Spink, chief executive of the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association:

The Labour Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has pledged £1.4 billion to rebuild more than 500 schools, as well as £2.1 billion for school maintenance. This is a 19 per cent increase of spend in the Department for Education’s capital budget.

“This much-needed investment is vital to help those schools impacted by Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC),” comments Sarah Spink, chief executive of the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA).

“It will have a direct and hopefully positive impact on the roofing sector, and in particular, liquid applied waterproofing membranes as they are often specified in education refurbishment.”

Spink concludes, “Our job now in the roofing sector is to continue to help educate and inform specifiers of the benefits of liquid applied membranes as the UK government tackles the RAAC crisis. A secure roof over our children’s heads is not just a structural necessity, but a foundational element for their education and future.”

 

Wallace Whittle environmental building services consultancy Wallace Whittle:

In today’s Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced an additional £5bn to build more homes in the UK. It’s a good start, but the detail of the forthcoming housing strategy announced by deputy prime minister Angela Rayner will be the real test.

 

Craig Robertson, director at environmental building services consultancy Wallace Whittle:

“Any additional funding is welcome but you have to put it in context of the ambitions the Government has already announced. It wants to build 1.5 million homes in the next five years, and we’re already a good few months into this Government’s tenure. New homes don’t just spring out of the ground, which means that additional £5bn is going to have to work pretty hard.

“The missing piece of the puzzle is the housing strategy announced in the summer by Angela Rayner – if the Government can make it easier to access brownfield funding, get new developments to clear planning more quickly, and get the buy-in of industry, then they might have a fighting chance to making some progress.”

 

Eoghan O’Lionaird, Chief Executive Officer, Wates Group:

“We are pleased to see announcements in today’s Budget that outline positive steps to ensure our nation’s homes are fit for the future. At Wates, our purpose is to reimagine places for people to thrive, and so we welcome confirmation of £3.4bn for the Warm Homes Plan, the additional £500 million for the Affordable Homes Programme, and the consultation on a five-year rent settlement for social housing. In addition to these positive moves to address the UK’s housing crisis, we are also happy to see commitment to a 10-year infrastructure roadmap set out today, which we know will play a crucial role in unlocking Government projects for years to come. As one of the UK’s leading school builders, we were also encouraged by the Government’s significant £1.4bn boost in funding to rebuild schools across the country. We stand ready to turn these commitments into action and look forward to continuing to work as a strategic partner to Government to ensure we deliver on the promise of creating thriving communities up and down the country.”

 

Sam Butler, Butler Sherborn Comments on the Autumn Statement:

‘In the event, after much anticipation and speculation The Chancellor has announced very little which will directly affect the Cotswolds residential property market. Despite the fears of many, there have been no increases to CGT on second homes, and the only increase in SDLT on residential property has been in respect of second homes. This will be a consideration for the holiday let investors, as well as those who continue to enjoy the Cotswolds as their rural escape. Even this rise has in fact been lower than many anticipated, up by 2% to 5%.

Whilst Capital Gains Tax is to be increased with the lower rate going up from 10% to 18% and the higher rate up from 20% to 24%, the rates on residential property will remain at 18% and 24%, much to many landlords’ relief.

The proposed changes, effective from April 2026, to Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief will have a direct impact on farm and estate owners. They will undoubtedly affect future succession and IHT planning, as well as potentially reducing the attractiveness of buying bare land to investors, who are driven by the APR/BPR benefits that have existed to date. Further detail is required to enable a full assessment of the impact of these particular changes.

In view of the impact that will undoubtedly be felt by the private school sector, as fees will become subject to VAT from January 2025, the Cotswolds should expect to see demand for property increase in areas around the state schools. The Cotswolds have a number of particularly good state secondary schools, including The Cotswold School in Bourton-on-the-Water and Campden School at Chipping Campden.

We anticipate the uncertainty that has been stalking the property market in recent weeks, in the lead up to this budget, will now have been dispelled, and this should encourage buyers and sellers to reactivate and commit to their next move.

Overall, the Autumn Budget should have set a steady foundation, restoring confidence in the Cotswold property market, which is well-positioned to navigate current conditions. The area’s natural beauty, desirable communities, and high demand for rural living make it resilient against rapid market fluctuations. This confidence is key for both buyers considering a long-term investment and sellers hoping to make the most of strong interest in the region. For those who value lifestyle and heritage, the Cotswolds remains a lovely area in which to make ones home whilst offering a worthy and stable investment.

See Also: What exactly is PSNFL?: Explaining the new headline target for government debt

 

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DULUX CELEBRATES 200th ‘LET’S COLOUR’ PROJECT COMPLETED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH VOLUNTEER IT YOURSELF

 

Dulux, the UK’s leading paint brand, is celebrating completing its 200th ‘Let’s Colour’ community project with social enterprise Volunteer It Yourself (‘VIY’). To mark the occasion, Dulux’s Senior Leadership Group, featuring many of the top leaders in the business across all functions in the UK and Ireland including the Management Team, joined forces with VIY as part of this landmark community project. They worked together to revitalise Winchmore Hill Sports Club and create safe, inclusive and welcoming changing rooms to grow their women and girls’ football teams.

 

To further build on the milestone, AkzoNobel, Dulux’s parent company, launched a new ‘Volunteering Through Partnership’ initiative which encourages colleagues from across the business to volunteer their time at least once per year. The initiative not only gives colleagues the time to volunteer in their teams, but also provides the materials needed to support community projects across the UK. Volunteering provides AkzoNobel the opportunity to give back to surrounding communities through valued partners, like VIY, and brands, like Dulux, in order to build stronger, more resilient communities by helping to add colour to people’s lives.

 

VIY has been working with Dulux for over four years through Dulux’s ‘Let’s Colour’ initiative which is dedicated to bringing communities together through the power of paint by working closely with partner organisations. Since July 2020, this partnership has positively impacted communities, with over 120,000 lives positively impacted through transforming over 200+ community spaces using donated Dulux Trade paint. These projects have successfully supported and developed over 3,000 young people aged 14-24 through taking part. They have also helped train over 2,360 young people in painting and decorating, including over 2,000 City & Guilds accreditations earned with over half of these in painting and decorating.

 

This is a tremendous achievement in an industry that is facing several challenges such as severe construction skills shortage, and an ageing population of decorators, many of whom are nearing retirement. With the total number of workers over 60 increasing more than any other age, the construction industry is at risk of losing vital knowledge and skills.

 

According to a report by the Construction Skills Network, the sector needs 225,000 new construction workers by 2027 to keep up with growing demand with 83% of businesses currently feeling the strain from a lack of skilled workers[5]. However, there are many as 140,000 construction and trade vacancies in the UK, providing significant opportunity for those looking to join the workforce. It is therefore vital to provide the next generation of talent with the right tools to enter the industry and safeguard its future.

 

Through the Dulux-VIY partnership, the young people mentored on these projects, who are often not in employment, education or training, are connected to apprenticeship opportunities within painting contractors and then are offered further support at the Dulux Academy training facilities, the home of painting and decorating excellence.

 

The 200th ‘Let’s Colour’ project with VIY took place on Wednesday, 16th October 2024 at Winchmore Hill Youth Football Club in Enfield, North London. This involved 40 AkzoNobel volunteers and VIY mentors to breathe new life into the club by giving it a new coat of paint, donated by Dulux. The project also included 16 young people volunteering who are all at risk of disengagement and were referred from VIY’s local youth partners including ESOL students from ELATT college and the Boxing Academy, an alternative provision for young people. 75% of the young volunteers achieved a City & Guilds Entry Level 3 accreditation in painting and decorating. The positive impact left by the project aims to drive inclusion, particularly female and disabled participation, by improving the eight changing facilities on site.

 

Peter Howard, Sustainability and CSR Lead at AkzoNobel, commented:

“We are incredibly proud to have partnered nationally with Volunteer It Yourself for the past four years, supporting not only hundreds of incredible community transformation projects but also training thousands of young people in construction skills. It has been inspiring to see the amazing work we have achieved together, now reaching our 200th community project- all of which leave communities with a lasting colourful legacy.

 Over this time, we’ve helped to support thousands of young people improve their confidence and build their trade skills. With the construction industry’s current growth trajectory, we know that it is crucial to fill the skills gap – and this is just one of the ways in which we are working towards protecting our industry’s bright future. This is a shining example of how collaboration with brilliant partners can harness the power of paint and colour, and I look forward to continuing to work together with VIY to bring colour into people’s lives and communities in the years to come”

 

Hannah Denny, Communications and Partnerships Manager at Volunteer It Yourself, commented:

“We know how important it is to give opportunities to young people who otherwise feel like they may not have them. Through equipping them the tools for success, we are proud to make a difference in thousands of people’s lives. Offering vocational training to young people is vital to creating a stronger future for the painting and decorating industry as we look to build the new generation of talent.

It is even more rewarding that this comes hand in hand with helping local communities by refreshing their spaces. High standard improvements, such as what we’ve achieved at Winchmore Hill, are key to retaining and attracting people to these spaces at a time when we are seeing falling community engagement and belonging across the country. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the funders of this project, without whom this could not have happened: the Barclays Community Football Fund, whose donation was match-funded by Sport England, in recognition of using sport and football as a vehicle to teach life skills to young people.

It is a fantastic achievement to reach our 200th project together with Dulux and great for everyone to get involved in what we do.”

 

Anthony, VIY Learner aged 22 at Gabalfa Youth and Community Centre, commented:

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity with VIY – I’ve never felt purpose like this before in my life. I was unsure what I wanted to do, I was considering signing up to the Army, but I didn’t really want to leave my family in Cardiff.

Construction is always something I’ve wanted to get into, but I’ve always struggled to gain work experience. As soon as I heard about the VIY project through my local JobCentre, I headed down the very next day. This project has been the first step for me to consider a role in the trade – and now I’ve been supported by VIY into my decorating apprenticeship with V&C (SW) Limited in Cardiff, which I’m absolutely loving.”

 

VIY is dedicated to helping young people learn construction skills whilst helping to renovate vital community facilities through combining DIY with volunteering. It challenges young people aged 14-24 to help repair and refurbish community places and spaces, whilst learning vocational trade skills on the job. VIY learners are mentored by professional tradespeople and can work towards and gain Entry Level City & Guilds trade skills accreditations. The group works with young people who are not in education, employment or training or at risk of disengagement/exclusion from mainstream education and training.

 

Volunteering with Volunteer It Yourself

If you would like to volunteer with VIY to support the experience of young people and the renovation of a community space in your area, you can take a look at the different roles available to see which best fits your skillset and complete a volunteer registration form on the Volunteer It Yourself website below.

CLICK HERE

 

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Calling All Young Artists! – MKM Building Supplies Launches 2024 Christmas Card Competition

MKM Building Supplies (MKM) is excited to announce the launch of its 2024 Christmas Card Competition, open to all creative young minds across the UK aged 16 and under. Now in its third consecutive year, this festive competition gives budding artists the chance to have their designs printed on up to 10,000 Christmas cards.

 

Rachel Constable, Head of ESG at MKM, said,

“Our Christmas Card Competition is fast becoming one of our favourite annual traditions, and we’re delighted to once again invite children across the country to showcase their creativity. It brings a smile to all our faces to see the wonderful designs that come in, and we’re excited to spread a bit of festive joy through our Christmas cards again this year.”

 

Whether your child loves to draw, paint, or create digital artwork, MKM is encouraging participants to showcase their design skills. While not mandatory, entrants are welcome to incorporate MKM-related items such as bricks, timber, or tools – and even their beloved mascot, Bricky!

Who Can Enter:
The competition is open to anyone aged 16 or under, with four age categories:

  • 0-3 years
  • 4-6 years
  • 7-11 years
  • 12-16 years

Prizes:
One winner from each category will receive a £50 Amazon voucher. One overall winner will also see their design printed on up to 10,000 Christmas cards, which will be sent to MKM customers, suppliers, and partners across the UK. In addition, the overall winner will receive a special £200 art bundle for their school or nursery to nurture even more creativity.

Entry Requirements:

  • Designs must be A4-sized, submitted in either JPEG or PDF format, and can be hand-drawn or digital.
  • The design must include an MKM logo
  • Each entry must include the artist’s name, age (as of 1 December 2024), date of birth, and a guardian’s contact details (address, email, and phone number).
  • Entries should be submitted by 9am on Friday 8th of November 2024.
CLICK HERE TO ENTER
Submissions can be made online via the competition’s dedicated entry form

All entries will be judged anonymously by a panel of MKM staff against a number of criteria. The winners will be bold, bright designs that demonstrate creativity, originality, and festive cheer.

 

For more information on the competition and how to enter, keep an eye on MKM’s social media channels and website.

 

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Exciting Times at Breathing Buildings as Company Strides Ahead in Indoor Air Quality

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Breathing Buildings, a leading provider of controlled natural and hybrid ventilation systems, is striding ahead in indoor air quality (IAQ) with three exciting developments. Firstly, the company has led the way in innovation by recently celebrating winning ‘Commercial/ Industrial Ventilation Product of the Year’ category at the prestigious HVR Awards 2024. The company won the award with its new NVHRe, Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling and Heat Recovery (NVHRe), which is the latest addition to its award-winning range of Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling (NVHR®) systems. Secondly, building on this success, the company has invested in a new Business Development Director, Matthew Cooper to help grow the Breathing Buildings brand providing industry leading ventilation solutions. Thirdly, Breathing Buildings is exhibiting for the first time in Ireland at the Education Buildings Ireland Exhibition.

 

Breathing Buildings scooped the Commercial/Industrial Ventilation Product of the Year award at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 12th September at London’s Chelsea Harbour Hotel. Breathing Buildings won the award for its innovative NVHRe, which raises the bar on energy efficient ventilation. Marking the next step in hybrid ventilation technology, the key difference between Breathing Buildings’ original NVHR® range and the new innovative Natural Ventilation with Heat Recycling and Heat Recovery (NVHRe) is an addition of a low resistance heat exchanger cell within the unit. This allows the unit to benefit from both heat recycling and heat recovery, reclaiming even more heat than previous models, saving more energy, providing great occupant comfort, and allowing users to include it within the building energy assessments (SBEM).

 

Keen to raise the importance of energy efficient ventilation and the benefits of good IAQ in buildings, Breathing Buildings is excited to have welcomed a new member to its team. Matthew Cooper joins Breathing Buildings as Business Development Director. With over 15 years’ experience within the HVAC industry, Matthew comes with drive and enthusiasm to help steer the team to even more wins.

Matthew Cooper, Business Development Manager

 

 

On joining Matthew said “I’m super excited to join the team and it appears to be perfect timing with our new NVHRe winning the Commercial/ Ventilation Product of the Year at the HVR Awards in my second week of joining! I’m eager to go out and about, meeting customers, gaining new contacts and helping grow the Breathing Buildings brand.”

 

 

Expanding its brand presence beyond the UK, Breathing Building is exhibiting in Ireland for the first time at Education Buildings Ireland Exhibition on 6-7 November 2024, collaborating with Lindab on Stand 519 at RDS Dublin, Hall 2. At the exhibition, the company is hoping to share the wealth of experience it has on how to improve IAQ in schools. The event is organised in partnership with the Government of Ireland and comprises a 2-day multi-stream conference and an exhibition. The aim of all those involved is to create high-quality learning environments for all students and learners. IAQ is recognised as an important part of this goal.

 

The focus on indoor air quality in schools is not new. Prior to the pandemic there was already an increasing awareness of how indoor environments impact our health and wellbeing. In the UK ventilation guidance for schools already existed in the form of Building Bulletin 101 (BB101). The document’s last revision, the 2018 edition of BB101: ‘Guidelines on ventilation, thermal comfort and indoor air quality in schools’ looks at the key design elements of modern ventilation systems in schools. The document sets out requirements for schools to improve ventilation to help create a healthy and comfortable environment that will help improve children’s learning outcomes. Breathing Buildings is now hoping to offer its help to improve learning environments in Ireland too by enhancing IAQ.

 

“It is exciting times at Breathing Buildings at the moment. Not only did we win the ‘Commercial/Industrial Ventilation Product of the Year’ category with our NVHRe at the prestigious HVR Awards 2024 but we have been shortlisted for the H&V News Awards’ ‘Commercial HVAC Product of the Year – Ventilation’ category too, and we are looking forward to the event that will be held on 28th November.

We also welcome our new Business Development Director, Matthew Cooper who has joined the team with 15 years of industry experience and is focussed on helping grow the Breathing Buildings brand,” said Alexis Roberts, Brand Manager at Breathing Buildings.

 

 

The company’s award-winning NVHRe offers the lowest energy consumption for a hybrid heat recovery ventilation unit in the industry, the NVHRe combines 46% heat recovery efficiency with low Specific Fan Power (SFP) of 0.075 W/l/s to help maximise a building’s energy savings. In addition, the NVHRe has several different operating modes to minimise energy use, enhance IAQ and improve occupant comfort. An intelligent hybrid system, the unit automatically decides when and if mechanical operation is required, ensuring it only operates when absolutely necessary.

 

Providing excellent thermal comfort and enhanced IAQ, the NVHRe is designed to suit a diverse range of commercial and public buildings with high heat gains, such as schools, colleges, leisure centres, offices, theatres and even churches. The inclusion of the low resistant aluminium cross plate heat exchanger to the unit lowers energy costs by reducing the reliance on space heating to maintain thermal comfort in a room. It operates during colder external temperatures, typically below 7ºC when mixing recycled air alone is not enough to maintain the desired temperature for occupants.

 

The range also includes units that can be the primary source of heat; needing no radiators, as well as a system that can offer further cooling. The British designed and manufactured units come in three models with product variations to suit every need with the standard NVHRe 1100 an NVHRe+ 1100 which includes a heating coil and is ideal for buildings in cooler areas; and an NVHRe C+ 1100 which features a heating and cooling coil for year-round comfort and full temperature control.

 

The NVHRe hybrid ventilation system’s ultra-efficient facade-based mixing ventilation allows single-sided, enhanced natural and hybrid ventilation in deep plan spaces whilst making the most of internal heat gains, with the addition of heat recovery to deliver superb thermal comfort and IAQ. Hybrid ventilation focuses on the vital balance of IAQ, thermal comfort, and efficiency by choosing the most appropriate mode of ventilation based on the internal and external conditions, allowing the NVHRe to be in the most energy efficient mode possible at all stages.

 

Allowing low-energy hybrid natural ventilation, even in buildings with limited facade and roof space, highly efficient mixing fans mitigate cold draughts in winter and provide a ventilation boost in summer, with the addition of heat recovery to bolster winter thermal comfort, minimising the need for a primary source of heating for the space, in return reducing energy costs. Supplied with an external temperature sensor, and an internal temperature and CO2 sensor, as well as an intelligent controller the system monitors conditions to create an ideal indoor environment, boosting both productivity and wellbeing.

 

Breathing Buildings’ multi-award-winning natural ventilation with heat recycling (NVHR®) range won the Energy Efficient Product of the Year Award at the prestigious Energy Awards, and also recently won three awards for providing ventilation to the East Anglian Air Ambulance project with the Breathing Buildings’ NVHR® range.

CLICK HERE

For further information on NVHR®, NVHRe and E-stack ventilation,

as well as other products and services offered by Breathing Buildings

or call us on 01223 450 060

 

 

 

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The Cubed Skyscraper, Will be the Largest Building in the World

All images courtesy of the Saudi Public Investment Fund

Riyadh’s New Murabba mega project was initially announced by HRH Mohammad bin Salman as an initiative of the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, led by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) authorities. The destination is envisioned to become an iconic global destination while fostering sustainable urban growth. Spanning two million square meters of cultural, commercial, and residential space, the project includes over 104,000 residential units, 620,000 square meters of leisure facilities, and 1.8 million square meters dedicated to community spaces. Anchored by its futuristic vision, New Murabba will create 334,000 jobs and add SAR180 billion (£40 billion) to the country’s non-oil GDP, positioning Riyadh as a leading global hub for innovation and tourism.

The anchoring Mukaab skyscraper, architecturally inspired by a modern interpretation of Najdi design elements, will become the world’s first immersive destination offering a futuristic hospitality experience realized with digital and virtual technology. Inside, it will comprise a futuristic amalgamation of modern-day luxuries including fine dining restaurants, retail, and residential living, marked by a monumental towering spiral structure composed of stacked organic forms. The outer dome of the atrium encompassing the tower will be fitted with cutting-edge holographics and virtual reality screens, reflecting surreal, scenic vistas to transport visitors and locals into a ‘gateway to another world.’

 

Source: DesignBoom

 

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CLEAN ENERGY FROM DIRTY WATER INVESTMENTS

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Following an £80.6 million investment earlier this year into heat networks utilising waste heat sources, Triple Point Heat Networks Investment Management is excited to commit a further £20 million to energy-from-waste (EfW) projects in Birkenhead and Loughborough. An additional £2 million will support a heat network in Portsmouth to harness heat from a local reservoir.

Harnessing waste heat produced as a byproduct from industrial processes is an efficient and sustainable way to decarbonise our energy supply. The solution can significantly reduce the carbon emissions produced from heating homes, businesses and public buildings. Through the GHNF, projects across the country are rolling out this technology to recycle waste heat and drive the transition to greener energy solutions.

Wirral Borough Council is benefitting from commercialisation funding to kickstart a project in Birkenhead, using effluent from an existing wastewater treatment plant as the heat network’s primary source. This network will go on to connect 21,000 homes being built over the next 20 years across one of the UK’s largest brownfield regeneration sites.

In the East Midlands, Vital Energi has received funding to sleeve excess heat from the Newhurst Energy Recovery Facility (ERF). The network will connect a new build development and buildings located on the west side of Loughborough University. Connections to other educational institutions across Loughborough are expected in future plans.

Further south in Hampshire, Last Mile Heat Ltd has secured funding for an ambient heat network which will take heat from Portsmouth Water’s reservoir for the Welborne Garden Village. The heat network will provide low carbon heating to 15,000 new residents, shops, schools and commercial spaces.

Locating untapped sources of heat is vital to the UK’s overarching goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050. These projects, kickstarted by GHNF, are expected to save more than 248,000 tonnes of carbon over the next 15 years marking a significant step towards a more sustainable future.

 

Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh said:

 

“The funding for these three fantastic projects will not only support the communities they serve, but also contribute to our clean power by 2030 mission, ensuring Britain has greater energy security.

“By investing in new, greener heat networks, we are helping more homes and businesses across England benefit from cleaner heating – leading to lower energy bills.”

 

Ken Hunnisett, Programme Director, said:

 

“Harnessing waste heat that would otherwise be lost is a valued approach to enhancing energy security while reducing our dependency on non-renewable heating sources.

 

Today’s announcement expands the growing portfolio of GHNF funded projects that are leveraging local heat sources to advance the decarbonisation of our homes, universities, schools and more.”

 

Birkenhead Heat Network (£887,000 commercialisation funding)

 

Wirral Borough Council have been awarded £887,000 commercialisation funding as part of a £41 million heat network project which plans to decarbonise an estimated 7,448 new homes along with new commercial developments that are part of its ambitious regeneration plans for the area.

The support will help to kickstart the inception of the new heat network within Birkenhead town centre, which is expected to use a Water Source Heat Pump (WSHP) to harness waste heat from the existing wastewater treatment plant.

A mix of buildings will benefit from sustainable heating and hot water provision provided by the network*.

Cllr Tony Jones, Chair of the Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee for Wirral Council, said:

 

“The development of a new heat network for Birkenhead, likely to be powered using a Water Source Heat Pump, underpins our wide-reaching regeneration plans for the town centre and is a clear example of Wirral looking to embrace green investment opportunities, promote sustainable regeneration and develop infrastructure in line with the challenge of rapid decarbonisation.”

 

Newhurst (£19 million commercialisation and construction)

 

The Newhurst heat network, located just outside Loughborough, will receive £19 million commercialisation and construction funding to connect 42GWh of low carbon heat recovered from the Newhurst Energy Recovery Facility to Loughborough University in Phase 1.

Construction is due to start in late 2025 and be complete within 2 years. The project will be run by Vital Energi who will fund the remainder of the project as well as design, build, operate and maintain the heat network. There are also plans to expand the heat network to new build residential properties, along with other heat users in Loughborough.

Nick Gosling, Chief Strategy Officer at Vital Energi said:

 

“The Newhurst heat network is a great example of sustainable innovation, transforming waste into warmth and having a positive environmental impact across the community. Many education institutions have set extremely tight deadlines for reaching their net zero targets and we are excited to be working on a project which will help move so many important organisations towards a greener future.”

 

Welborne Garden Village (£2 million commercialisation and construction)

 

Last Mile Heat, in collaboration with Rendesco, have secured £2 million for the Welborne Garden Village heat network.

The innovative solution harnesses ambient heat from the local Portsmouth Water reservoir, supplying low carbon heating and hot water to an initial 700 homes at the Buckland Group development in Fareham, Hampshire. Over time 6,000 new build homes and up to 15,000 residents will be connected. Cooling will also be provided in the warmer months.

In addition, the heat pump solution will extend to provide low carbon heating to 10 hectares of employment space, healthcare facilities, schools, and local retail and leisure facilities for residents over time.

Upon the project’s completion, an average three-bedroom house will save £160 on their energy bills versus other low carbon heating solutions, according to Rendesco.

Alastair Murray, Director, Last Mile Heat said:

 

“With government legislation steering new developments towards cleaner heating and hot water options, developers are working with Last Mile Heat to take advantage of high quality, low carbon energy sources that are more efficient than air source heat pumps without costing the developer anymore. This project is a template for future housing developments of all shapes and sizes and gives the developers the confidence to design their projects around low carbon heat networks.

 

 

Source: The Association for Decentralised Energy

 

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Stark Warning about Tearing up the Red Tape

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  Peter Apps, Investigative Journalist

Grenfell commentator issues stark warning to M&E sector practitioners

 

Peter Apps, the investigative journalist who raised concerns about combustible cladding and high-rise buildings before the Grenfell Tower fire occurred – has warned the building services sector not to ignore new building safety regulations in the face of growing frustrations over project delays and rising costs.

 

During his keynote address to the organisation’s Annual Conference hosted by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), Apps described the Building Safety Act 2022 as “unwieldy” and suggested that there have been widespread reports of projects being held up by new planning restrictions.

“People are finding the new regulations frustrating,” asserted Apps. “[They say] ‘Why can’t we just get on and build?’… but there are long-term consequences if you do that,” he told the assembled audience. “Every change and every decision affects someone somewhere.”

Further, Apps stated that Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s promise to “back builders, not blockers” by tearing up “red tape” is concerning because of its implications for the new safety regime.

Apps, whose book about the Grenfell disaster entitled ‘Show Me The Bodies’ won the 2023 Orwell Prize for Political Writing, warned attendees at the BESA Annual Conference that there will always be people “who just want to make money out of you” and are prepared to ignore safety warnings. “Beneath the surface, there’s a lot of work that isn’t changing.”

‘Swiss cheese’ model
According to Apps, the industry continues to rely on the ‘Swiss cheese’ model, which involves multiple safety layers, but each one has holes in it and project teams simply hope that one will prevent a fire from spreading.

“We cannot keep relying on luck,” urged Apps. “We are still counting a lot of near misses, while the world is becoming hotter, which inevitably means there will be more building fires,”

Apps added that there’s a chance buildings will become less safe with the wider adoption of modern methods of construction and lightweight structures. That said, he informed conference that construction is “a great industry” and people working within its boundaries now have the opportunity to reform it “by ensuring every building we work on is safe”.

Apps added a note of caution.

“We all need to be brave and ask the difficult questions that were not asked before the Grenfell fire. There are people who were involved in that refurbishment project who would give anything to go back and do it again [properly]. Their lives are now consumed by it. Don’t let that happen to you.”

Wide-ranging debate

Following on from his keynote address, Apps took part in a wide-ranging debate on the impact of the legislation with members of BESA’s Building Safety Act 2022 Advisory Group. The session identified considerable confusion among contractors about their specific responsibilities, not to mention a somewhat worrying lack of engagement from clients.

Contractors also said they felt under pressure to provide better evidence of their organisational competence and compliance with the new safety regime and also to ensure their engineers are technically competent. While many reported that they are firmly “on the journey” towards attaining that particular goal, they voiced the view that more specific guidance and support is needed.

 

Source: Fire Safety Matters

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CITB urges construction firms to pursue apprenticeship grants

 

The body is investing nearly £150m into apprenticeship grants and has issued over 72,000 apprenticeship grants since 2020

 

  • CITB is investing nearly £150m into apprenticeship grants between 2023 and 2025.
  • Over three-quarters of construction employers are considering taking on an apprentice.
  • CITB has issued over 72,000 apprenticeship grants for individual learners since 2020.

 

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is calling for construction companies to accelerate the number of apprenticeship starts by claiming CITB apprenticeship grants. From April 2023 to March 2025, CITB is investing nearly £150m into apprenticeship grants, demonstrating the scale of support that’s available.

 

CITB’s latest Employer Voice survey reported that 31% of employers are planning to take on an apprentice, with another 48% stating they may take one on. The body set up its New Entrant Support Team (NEST) to help employers better navigate the recruitment process, as well as access grants and suitable training, when and where needed.

 

NEST, which was launched in January 2023, helped over 2,318 people start an apprenticeship that year – more than a 500% increase compared to when NEST was piloted in the North of England from September to December 2022. In total, CITB supported over 29,000 apprentices during their courses in 2023 – a 30% increase over two years that was made possible through NEST and expanding National Construction College delivery.

 

Additionally, since 2020, CITB has issued over 72,000 apprenticeship grants for individual learners and delivered 5,700 apprenticeship courses at the National Construction Colleges. During the same period, over 26,000 apprenticeship grants were awarded to construction employers.

 

Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of CITB, said:

“A strong apprenticeship pipeline is vital for SME employers and a healthy construction industry. Over two-thirds of apprenticeship starts in the construction industry are employed by companies of fewer than 50 employees.

“We’re seeing strong demand for our apprenticeship and qualification grants, and we want to keep up the momentum. There are over 100 different construction apprenticeship roles that lead to careers in construction, and we encourage employers and people considering joining the industry to consider what apprenticeship role could work for them.

“As well as continuing to drive up apprenticeship start numbers, we also need to improve retention and attract apprentices to pursue a career in construction. Currently some 60% of further education learners on construction courses do not end up in the industry – we need to tackle this issue with effective recruitment and training while promoting the benefits of joining the industry.”

 

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Reviving shell structures


The Pabellon Onda, designed by Centro de Estudios Superiores de Diseño de Monterrey (CEDIM) – is an avant-garde architectural design project located in Santa Catarina, Mexico. This pavilion of 32 m² was completed in the year 2024 and explores new ways of construction that merge wood and concrete in a shell structure.

The project tries to revive the concept of shell structures, which had their wider acceptance stall in the 1980s due to the rising costs of materials involved, through the advancement in computational design and digital fabrication.

The two-layer shell system comprises a wood formwork and Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete. This serves to combine the best features of both materials: concrete provides very high resistance to compression, while wood provides great tensile flexibility, which results in a much more resilient structure with active bending. It made use of permanent formwork in wood, along with the implementation of innovative construction methods developed collaboratively by students and industry professionals under the academic coordination of Alma Sandra Luevano, together with tutors from renowned architectural firms like UNStudio and ALTERAT.

 

Source: Parametric Architecture

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