Government plans to ease pressure on new-build trades

The government’s plans to rescue the housing sector will have positive repercussions for the entire construction industry if they come through quickly enough, according to British Woodworking Federation (BWF) chief executive Richard Lambert.

It has been reported the government will announce a multi-million pound funding boost for social housing schemes, which involves bringing forward its existing spending plans.

Mr Lambert said this was an “inevitably sensible move” as the government looks to reach its targets for new homes as the private housing sector “shuts up shop in the face of the credit crunch”.

He said the number of completed units in 2008 will only reach 21,000 according to voices in the construction industry, well short of the 40,000 to 45,000 target.

However, Mr Lambert warned the move will not pick up the slack already created by the slowdown in the construction market and will only be truly effective if the measures come through quickly enough and in volume.

“What we’re seeing from our members is pressure coming from the new-build market, with those locked into it finding it hardest” he said.

“If [the plan] comes through and comes through quickly enough, it will help ease the pressure.”

For further industry reaction to the government’s plans, see the next edition of TTJ.