Plans for the construction industry have been fairly positive

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Key figures in the construction industry have been reacting to the latest queens speech with positive reactions for those in the sector,and show a general sentiment of those in the industry to be positive.

Paul Senior who is the National Chair for the FMB (Federation of Master Builders) commented:

“It is a relief that in its final parliament session, the Government is recognising the importance of not only reducing over burdensome regulation for small businesses but also tackling long held assumptions on payment terms. SME construction companies are well placed to build the homes, schools and hospitals of the future but the issues of regulation and cost of doing business must continue to be addressed.

“As we approach the 2015 general election, it is my hope that all the major political parties will continue to take positive steps, like those outlined today, to support growth in the construction industry. It is my belief that SMEs are the key to the construction industry’s future and must not be held back from helping to shape the built environment and driving economic growth for generations to come.” 

It’s good to see the green agenda highlighted and zero carbon targets are important, but a lack of clarity could hinder housing supply and this makes the early definition of small sites crucial. Allowable solutions must not be seen as a ‘get out’ clause for the property sector to shy away from its responsibility to embodied and emitted carbon reduction.”

Brian Berry form the FMB (Federation of Master Builders) commented:

“The small developers’ exemption from zero carbon homes regulations will help SME house builders plug the gap in the supply of new homes. The government clearly recognises that the cost implications for smaller developments are much higher than previously estimated and now accepts that it is not sensible to impose the same regulatory burden on SME house builders when at the same time urging them to build more new homes.

““The Small Business, Enterprise an Employment Bill will help improve the current situation where 40% of construction SMEs are failing to win 90% of the contracts they bid for. A vital part of engaging construction SMEs in the public procurement process will be the strengthening of the existing Prompt Payment Code and forcing larger businesses to publish their payment terms to increase transparency on the treatment of SMEs.”

Philip Orford who is the Chief Excetutive for the FPM (Forum of Private Business) commented :

“The Queens Speech is the topline list of goals for the Government in the final parliamentary term. There is nothing overly ambitious for businesses but the presence of a Small Business Bill will mean a number of smaller measures that could support enterprise. We need to await the real detail of the Bills clause by clause and will see what opportunities there are to push for even more pro business reforms.

“We also need to ensure the Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Bill contains some proactive measures to support the battle against late payment. We are also supportive of a pub adjudicator though feel there are further measures government could take to bolster pub landlords, not least by providing a free of beer tie.”