News

Investment to build more houses and to retrofit existing homes must be a key part of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Pre-Budget Report next month, argues the Federation of Master Builders.

Irish builders merchants and DIY group Grafton, which owns the Buildbase, Plumbase, Jacksons and Selco merchant brands in the UK has issued an interim management statement for the period to November 2009 which shows UK turnover down 4%.

Fareham-based plumbers merchant Williams & Co have taken on premises in Basingstoke, which will become their 15th branch.

The Water Efficient Products Labelling Scheme has been updated to include more products which will save householders water and the scheme is increasingly being used by consumers to source product, says the Bathroom Manufacturers Association.

Builders merchant group Grafton Group is setting up a fully managed stores for Manchester-based housing association Trafford Housing Trust, under the merchant's Grafton Group Supply Chain Solutions arm.

Building materials group Lafarge expects a recovery in developed markets to be underway in the second half of next year, despite cement volumes falling around 8% this year.

Gloucestershire builders merchant Hale & Co have completed the first of three rebuilding phases following a devastating fire at their premises earlier this year.

The Builders Merchants Federation has given only lukewarm approval to Tory housing policies as articulated by Shadow Housing Minister Grant Shapps in three speeches in the last few weeks.

With his Pre-Budget Report likely to be issued this month, it is essential that the Chancellor of the Exchequer recognises the importance of continued spending on construction projects according to the Construction Products Association.

PTS warehouse operative Graham Shadwell is to represent England at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.