Daily News: 12/03/2025
WDH is set to undergo a transformative rebrand, officially becoming Vico Homes in April. The change marks a new chapter for the organisation, as it evolves to better reflect its mission and future direction. Wakefield & District Housing (WDH)
A total of £1.29bn has been allocated to retrofit social homes across 144 projects under the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund Wave 3 initiative. This funding will support local authorities and housing associations in improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions in social housing. GOV.UK
Up to 170,000 homes across England will receive energy efficiency upgrades to help families stay warm and reduce energy bills. Additionally, £231m has been secured by London Councils, social housing providers, and the Mayor of London to improve insulation and lower energy costs for 22,000 homes in the capital. GOV.UK, London Councils
A phased demolition plan for council and private homes affected by Reinforced Autoclaved Concrete (RAAC) in Aberdeen has been agreed. Aberdeen City Council
Balfour Beatty saw a 14% drop in pre-tax profits to £214m due to an £83m building safety reassessment. Meanwhile, Briggs & Forrester Group rebounded from three challenging years to achieve record revenue and orders. Forterra warns housebuilders of price hikes as demand rises in early 2025, citing improving trading conditions. Additionally, a historic scaffolding firm with 125+ years in business has filed a notice of intention to appoint an administrator. Construction Enquirer, Construction Enquirer, Housing Today (register), and Construction Enquirer
The BCIS All-in Tender Price Index (TPI) recorded a 0.5% increase between Q4 2024 and Q1 2025, bringing annual growth to 2.3%. This marks a significant decline from the 10.3% peak in Q2 2022. BCIS
Construction input costs in Scotland rose by an average of 3% in the year to Q1 2025, with a 0.75% increase over the quarter, according to a BCIS contractors’ panel. BCIS
New data from Solar Energy UK reveals that over 40% of new homes built in England last year were fitted with solar panels, highlighting the growing role of renewable energy in housing. Solar Energy UK
The Local Government Association (LGA) has pushed back against new legislation that would limit the role of planning committees in approving developments, shifting more decision-making power to planning officers. Housing Today (register)
Barratt David Wilson seeks approval for 445 homes in Haydock, with 30% affordable. In Kent, a developer may contribute £6.5m if 290 homes at Ufton Court Farm are approved. Plans for a 1,600-home East Bristol neighbourhood have been unveiled. Amro proposes a 507-home BTR and co-living scheme near Sutton station. Housing association Abri plans to replace deteriorating flats in Bracknell with 106 new homes. Place North West, Kent Online, Bristol Live, Housing Today (register), and BBC