Latest News

The latest news, features, comment and analysis of the UK housebuilding market covering policy, regulation, planning, technology, new developments and products

Westbury acquisition pushes Persimmon into FTSE 100

Jan. 1, 2006

The year is drawing to a close with a fresh round of industry mergers and takeovers as challenging market conditions continue. Persimmon is acquiring Westbury for £643 million and Wimpey has announced plans to merge Laing Homes, which it acquired three years ago as a \"premium brand,\" into the main business – with the implication of major job losses.

\"Triple-headed\" team to take on Telford

Jan. 1, 2006

When the industry’s three biggest players decided to bid for the right to develop an English Partnerships-owned former coalmine in Telford, some expected the sparks to fly. But the trio teamed up to win, and Chris Windle finds out how they plan to tackle the next challenge: complying with the site’s strict design codes

HBF ceo resigns

Jan. 1, 2006

Home Builders Federation chief executive Rob Ashmead has resigned, following four years in the role.

Design of new housing slammed by CABE and Rogers’ urban taskforce

Jan. 1, 2006

Housebuilders have faced a two-pronged attack in recent weeks as both CABE and Lord Richard Rogers’ urban taskforce have criticised the standard of new housing design.

Barratt Elektron towers

Jan. 1, 2006

Barratt is planning to develop a series of towers alongside Canary Wharf in London Docklands – its tallest buildings to date