NHBC launches first multi-skill training hub
NHBC has launched its first multi-skill construction training hub, part of its £100 million UK-wide programme to address the skills shortage and support the government’s goal of delivering 1.5 million new homes in this parliament. The training hub in Lichfield, Staffordshire, is the first of 12 being rolled out nationwide by the new home warranties and insurance provider. Collectively, the hubs will train up to 3,000 apprentices a year in real site conditions, tackling the growing demand for skilled trades across the housebuilding sector.
HBF calls on govt support at parliamentary skills event
The industry has made notable strides to address the skills issue but it needs government support to “fully close” the skills gap and meet housing ambitions, according to the Home Builders Federation, holding a parliamentary reception on skills yesterday (March 11). HBF’s reception demonstrated the diverse range of career pathways and entry routes that the housebuilding sector offers. It also stressed the importance of industry and government collaboration “to ensure long-term resilience in the future workforce”.
Govt consults on grid demand
The government is consulting on ways to tackle speculative demand grid connection requests, with priority over projects that “deliver growth and jobs”. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) said today (March 11) that the queue for demand connections to the transmission network had leapt 460% in the six months to June 2025, with the system “swamped with applications”
Persimmon hails “strong performance” but warns on Iran conflict
Persimmon’s completions and profit rose in 2025 with the business reporting a “strong performance”. But the housebuilder also noted the possible effect of the Iran conflict on customer sentiment this year. During the year ending December 31 2025, Persimmon’s revenue grew 17% to £3.75 billion against 2024, with completions lifting 12% to 11,905 new homes.
Shared Voice calls for planning consultation reform
The planning system’s approach to consultation is “structurally flawed and risks undermining the delivery of homes and infrastructure”, according to public engagement specialist Shared Voice. Submitting its response to the consultation on the revamped National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which closes today (March 10), Shared Voice has called for reform of the community consultation system, stating that it tends to favour local opposition instead of including those who support new housing.
Housebuilder Awards – entry deadline May 1
Entries are now invited for the Housebuilder Awards 2026, the industry's own awards, supported by the Home Builders Federation and NHBC. Categories one to 12 are available to enter. The Small, Medium and Large Housebuilders of the Year will be chosen from entrants in categories one to 11.
Industry celebrates Women in Construction Week
Women still only represent around 15% of the construction workforce, according to Office for National Statistics data. Marking Women in Construction Week and International Women’s Day, Housebuilder reports on the women working across a range of roles in housebuilding, why they love their jobs and the advice they would give to those looking to join them. “Don’t let being the only woman in the room intimidate you,” Abigail Pickering, Owl Homes' quantity surveyor, advises any girl or woman contemplating a career in housebuilding. “The industry needs different skillsets and life experiences to bring originality and fresh insight. Take all the opportunities you can.”
HBF Policy Conference – book now
Housing secretary Steve Reed heads a strong line up at the Home Builders Federation’s Policy Conference this month, taking place in just over two weeks. At the Policy Conference on March 24, Reed is set to give delegates a flavour of how the government will help the industry to "Build, baby, build" to meet the 1.5 million new homes target in this parliament.
Future Homes Hub launches FHS campaign
The Future Homes Hub has launched an initiative to encourage housebuilders of all sizes to prepare themselves for the Future Homes Standard. The Hub’s Future Homes Standard Essentials show the industry how to “start their journey towards Future Homes Standard compliance today”. Based on real-world experience, the campaign sets out seven critical steps to help housebuilders and their advisers de-risk the delivery of more sustainable homes “that are comfortable, healthy, low-energy, zero‑carbon ready and aligned with the future energy system”.
