Housebuilding 2.0
The skills shortage is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. But over the past few months, it has started to put plans into action to add to its numbers. Suzie Mayes looks at what work is happening now with various avenues of recruitment and how the industry is hoping to boost its image
Vote for the establishment
Stephen Byfield, md of communications consultancy PPS, argues that the housebuilding industry needs steady growth and no volatility - so advises that we vote for the established parties, eschewing the rising fringe contenders
HBF Policy Conference Report
With housing high on the agenda for the looming general election, the traditional big three political parties sent senior politicians to the HBF Policy conference last month to add detail to their plans. Ben Roskrow reports
On tour
NHBC has embarked on its Building for Tomorrow roadshows tackling the latest industry challenges, including air leakage testing and CDM changes. Housebuilder finds out more
Building benefits
NHBC is launching a range of new benefits to its members which are set to help smaller housebuilders in particular. Housebuilder reports
Dipping into history
Bewley Homes' Bewley Park is a carefully crafted scheme featuring some sensitive conversions which reference the site’s past. Suzie Mayes pays a visit to the development near to Reading town centre
The house rules
Glenigan's annual house type survey reveals another rise in the units in the planning pipeline, with houses gaining at the expense of flats and Taylor Wimpey still in the lead. Steve Menary reports
Sales forces
Shared equity and part exchange are valuable tools for enabling sales. Suzie Mayes looks at the current market for both, and gives an update on the insurance world
Legal eagles
Suzie Mayes talks to the law firms that can help housebuilders on issues including planning, construction law and mines and minerals insurance
Financial foundations
In the first part of our finance and legal special, Suzie Mayes reports on the development finance market and lending conditions for housebuilders. High street banks remain reticent – and there are wider market challenges - but specialist lenders are ready to help
