Paul Brown, chief executive of Sisk, is returning to the Build UK board as chair, having previously acted as vice chair in 2022
The new Build UK chair has been appointed today, with a talk by the chief secretary to the treasury, James Murray MP, marking the occasion.
Murray outlined plans to deliver £725bn of infrastructure in the recent 10-year infrastructure strategy.
Paul has over two decades of experience
Paul Brown has been a civil engineer for more than 25 years, bringing his experience to succeed Julie White, former Build UK chair for the last two years, and the managing director of D-Drill & Sawing.
Paul Brown said: “Taking on the role of Build UK Chair at such a pivotal time for our industry is a huge privilege. Construction is taking an increasingly integrated approach to infrastructure planning, improving the way we deliver projects, and driving forward the highest standards of building safety.
“Build UK has a vital role to play in supporting these priorities, and I look forward to working with members across the supply chain to deliver change and demonstrate the positive impact of construction on the economy and local communities across the UK.”
Build UK chief executive, Suzannah Nichol OBE, said: “We are delighted to have Paul as our new chair. By bringing the whole industry together around the same table, Build UK has demonstrated that it can successfully respond to the issues we face, such as the new building safety regime, and Paul’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.
“I would also like to thank Julie for her outstanding contribution over the past two years and for all her support in representing the industry since she was first elected to the Board 10 years ago.”
The Building Safety Act is causing confusion amongst builders
As highlighted in Paul’s speech above, building safety standards are one of the top priorities and promotions for Build UK. However, as research from URSA showed in July, nearly a quarter of architects have stated that their clients are confused or unsure of the new roles and duties required by the Building Safety Act.
A further 38% of architects said that they had to spend ‘considerable time’ educating their clients.
Kevin Tolson, UK business development director, Insulation Division at URSA, said: “There is a clear knowledge gap across the building sector right now – which is perhaps no surprise given we are experiencing the biggest regulatory shift for a generation.
“High-rise buildings will be a vital part of the UK’s building strategy moving forwards, particularly if the Government is going to achieve its proposed housebuilding targets. However, industry must pull together to ensure everyone involved in the development of tall buildings understands the intricacies and implications of the BSA.”
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