Latest Construction News from ARW Contract

Construction’s major employer groups have committed to taking on more than 1,500 apprentices between them in 2012 according to the Industry Training Board and Sector Skills Council CITB-ConstructionSkills.

Plans to introduce new contract conditions for employees in the building services sector appear to have collapsed beyond repair, with NG Bailey now following Balfour Beatty in backing out of reform.

Record housebuilding levels and a focus on the southeast helped Galliford Try grow its half-year revenues 30% and almost double its pre-tax profits.

Travis Perkins managed to grow its business in 2011 even without the acquisition of the BSS plumbing supplies business, thanks to increased revenues in its merchanting business.

Barratt Developments has reported a 40% rise in half-year operating profits, even greater improvement in recent weeks.

Business lobby group the CBI has called for a new capital allowance to stimulate private infrastructure spending.

The building products sector is urging Chancellor George Osborne to spend what little money he has on capital projects rather than current expenditure.

The proposed merger of Tarmac and Lafarge is set to be blocked by competition authorities.

The Health & Safety Executive has started a four-week intensive inspection campaign focusing on construction sites where refurbishment or repair works are being carried out.

Morgan Sindall Group has reported steady results for the past year, with revenue slightly up and profit broadly unchanged. Construction margins have taken a hit, however.