In the face of pressing challenges, the National Federation of Builders (NFB) has outlined a robust call to action for the next UK government.
- The NFB’s manifesto highlights the urgent need for funding of building safety remediation, stressing that it should become a government responsibility.
- Abolition of retentions is recommended to promote fairer industry practices and improve the financial environment within construction.
- The manifesto strongly opposes late payments by recommending that companies with poor payment records be barred from public contracts.
- The NFB advocates for environmental advancements, including a strategic focus on solar energy and sustainable infrastructure.
The NFB has issued a detailed manifesto urging the next government to take responsibility for hazardous cladding remediation by funding these efforts entirely with public money. This action aims to relieve developers and leaseholders of the financial strain currently imposed on them.
Addressing the issue of retention payments, the NFB suggests abolishing this practice altogether, opting instead for an industry-supported scheme. This change is proposed to ensure fairer financial practices across the construction sector.
Late payment practices remain a persistent problem for contractors and subcontractors. The NFB’s manifesto calls for a legislative approach to prohibit companies with a history of delayed payments from securing taxpayer-funded projects, emphasising that such practices ‘remain a stain on the government’s record.’
The NFB also argues for comprehensive reforms to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), including the removal of its levy-raising capabilities. This move is part of a broader push to incentivise training and upskilling through tax breaks, which could foster industry growth.
The manifesto’s environmental strategies include recommendations for a targeted solar panel initiative focused on commercial and industrial spaces, and integrating local grid capacities into planning to support renewable energy expansion. Such measures aim to facilitate the UK’s transition towards sustainable infrastructure.
The NFB’s manifesto presents a comprehensive blueprint aimed at securing growth and sustainability within the UK construction industry over the next governmental term.
