<br/> <p>The housing market will remain open with sites allowed to continue operation under England’s third national lockdown, the government has confirmed. </p> <p>In <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/949536/NationalLockdownGuidance.pdf">government guidance</a> published following the prime minister’s statement on measures to last until at least mid-February, it states that those working in construction “should continue to travel to their workplace. This is essential to keeping the country operating and supporting sectors and employers”. </p> <p>Home moving, buying and selling can also continue according to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak?pk_campaign=newsletter_4218">guidance</a>, with property viewings allowed. If a person is moving home, those outside their household or support bubble should not help “unless absolutely necessary”.</p> <p>Building merchants and building products suppliers will also remain open, being classed as essential retail under the government’s guidelines.</p> <p>In May of last year, the Home Builders Federation and government published the <a href="https://www.hbf.co.uk/policy/coronavirus/charter-safe-working-practice-covid-19/?pk_campaign=newsletter_3998">Charter for Safe Working Practice</a>. <span>It is intended to be displayed publicly to ensure that communities are aware of the status of home building sites during lockdown.</span></p><p><span><br/></span></p>