The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has said the slowdown in construction activity since the summer needs to be boosted by a national strategy to upgrade existing homes to make them greener and more energy efficient.
This in response to Construction PMI data, which shows that construction recovery softened compared to the summer high, and employment continued to fall since the first lockdown.
Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB, said: “With construction’s recovery slowing and employment in the sector continuing to fall, now is the time for the government to take action and instigate a National Retrofit Strategy.
“This would stimulate work and employment throughout the sector, while supporting the Prime Minister’s latest carbon emission reduction targets. Decarbonising our homes is vital as they contribute 20% of the country’s carbon emissions and the Green Homes Grant, while firmly a step in the right direction, does not go far enough if we are to achieve to achieve a 68% reduction by 2030, and net zero carbon by 2050.”
Brian continued: “As we emerge from the difficulties faced during the past year, 2021 should be seen as a year of significant opportunity to move the dial further towards Net Zero and build back greener.
“A retrofit strategy would provide economic, environmental and social benefits throughout all regions, supporting the government’s levelling up agenda.”
