If you follow UK construction and infrastructure developments, you might have been keeping up with the latest draft proposal from the UK government to build 7 new towns across England, representing the biggest transport and house building programme in over 50 years. Currently, the proposed programme is being backed by the brand-new National Housing Bank, with financial backing of up to £16 billion.
With such a huge, proposed investment, this raises a lot of questions around the opportunities for those working in the construction industry, especially since the project aims to deliver over 500,000 new homes.
What does the new towns proposal mean for construction?
1) A huge Influx of Work Over The Coming Decades
With each new town expected to deliver at least 10,000 homes, plus supporting infrastructure, we can expect huge impacts for the construction industry, including a significant influx of work and bidding opportunities that will consist of multi-phase projects, a consistent demand for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, as well as opportunities across housing, civils, utilities, and public sector builds.
However, at this early stage, it is important to recognise that this is not expected to be a quick boost. Instead, we can expect it is a 10 to 20+ year pipeline of work.
2) Infrastructure-led Construction
These proposed works will run on a massive scale, designed as more than housing developments to become fully integrated communities with transport connections, green spaces, schools and healthcare facilities, retail, and so much more. With such a diverse volume of construction, not only does this represent a huge injection of resources into residential construction, but represents 1,000s more jobs and opportunities in the construction sector.
3) Increased focus on modern construction methods
It can be expected that, with such large-scale construction plans, there will be a heightened focus on modern construction methods that deliver reduced construction timelines and greater off-site construction, such as modular construction, pre-fabrication of components and off-site manufacturing.
What does this mean for construction site security?
1) Larger, more complex sites
The scale of the proposed new towns changes can be expected to change everything when it comes to site security. These are not standard, contained builds; they are large, evolving environments with multiple contractors, phases, and access points. This makes the security and containment of sites for public and professional safety absolutely paramount.
Here at Rethync, we are always busy preparing for the latest changes and developments in the construction industry. Our site security solutions are perfectly suited to complex site developments, including:
- Increased secure access points provided by our range of site gates for pedestrian and vehicle access
- Multisite hoarding that is built to last through long-term construction projects, installed directly into the ground for high levels of stability and security.
- Adaptable site fencing and boundary control with a leading range of temporary fencing, gates, barriers and accessories
- Reusable and environmentally friendly fencing with our timber fencing options, ensuring lower environmental impact through long-term construction.
2) Higher expectations for sustainable development
As we mentioned, with the scale of this proposal, at this early stage, we can expect construction of these 7 new towns to span approximately 10-20+ years of work. Because of this, it will be more crucial than ever that construction organisations involved will be held to higher expectations for sustainable and environmentally-friendly development.
Rethync have established a strong reputation for sustainable site security with our timber fencing products and services that create practical and compliant solutions for temporary and semi-permanent site requirements whilst not compromising a sustainable solution.
Beyond this, there will be more site security concerns other than simple boundary definition. Whilst working across the country, there will be a requirement to protect the natural environment and green spaces within the future communities. Rethync’s Tree Protection Fencing provides a strong and reliable barrier to safeguard trees and root protection zones during construction, groundwork and landscaping works.
3) Increased emphasis on site set-up and security
With developments on the scale of the new towns programme, site set-up and security move from a basic requirement to a critical part of project success. Getting it right early can prevent delays, reduce risk, and keep projects running smoothly over the long term.
Here at Rethync, we understand that these are not short-term builds. They are evolving sites that require strategic decision-making on-site from day one. By working closely with contractors early, Rethync can help:
- Define access points and site layout
- Reduce disruption caused by poor planning
- Keep projects moving without unnecessary delays
- Keep the public safely separated from works
- Protect valuable materials and equipment
- Present a clean, professional site to the outside world#
So, with a final note on the opportunities presented by the new 7 town proposal, we can expect major changes ahead for the construction industry across England, with opportunities and challenges ahead.
At Rethync, we are here to support that from day one, helping contractors and developers create secure, efficient sites that are built to perform, no matter the scale.
To discuss your site security, fencing and hoarding needs, get in touch with a member of our team via sales@rethync.co.uk or give us a call on 03300 535 898