WITH the wider UK construction industry slipping into recession for the first time in four years, incoming construction minister Jesse Norman MP faces a real challenge if he is to reinvigorate new home delivery.

But Pilning builders Helm Construction have come up with a five-point wishlist which they are convinced will help restore confidence across the sector.

Chief executive Gary Sheppard said: “We appear to be on a far different trajectory to the wider industry as we are busier than we have ever been.

“It’s plain to see construction levels in Bristol and Bath are continuing to accelerate, with plenty of activity in the city centres and also in the suburbs.

“But we feel there are a number of measures the new minister could initiate to get building back on track nationally.”

Gary Sheppard said the first priority should be to simplify and ease the planning process as this would have an instant impact on new home delivery.

“The government has already made a concerted effort to speed up the planning process but it remains a time-consuming and easily obstructed exercise – whether you are talking about large housebuilding schemes or a simple residential extension.

“Secondly, it is important to ensue planning authorities adhere to national policy instead of interpreting it locally.

“Easing process and creating more opportunities for SME construction companies to participate in government-led build programmes would help to stimulate competition.

“And helping rural communities by easing planning rules on infill sites in Green Belt areas, allowing families to continue to live in the same area as opposed to younger house buyers being forced out into estates would also benefit the sector.”

Gary Sheppard said improving flood defences would allow further areas of land to be released for future development.

“And smaller private developments should be encouraged by increasing social housing thresholds – which would make a number of developers look at the density of housing on sites.

“We believe these measures could help halt the decline in UK construction.

“But it is important to stress conditions on the ground here in the new Bristol, South Gloucestershire and BaNES devolved authority couldn’t be further from these increasingly gloomy national forecasts.

“We are working on everything from large garden plots to old parking areas and brownfield sites in the city centre as owners authorise schemes which may have lain dormant for years.”

For further information, contact Helm Construction on 01454 634020.