Coronavirus update for construction: 29 May

The positive feedback we have received on our daily updates since the start of the coronavirus crisis has been much appreciated, and we are really pleased that we have been able to support our members and the wider industry throughout this time. While responding to coronavirus-related issues continues to take up the majority of our resources, the country is about to enter a new phase in terms of the easing of the lockdown and we will be publishing updates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from next week onwards.

The Scottish Government has confirmed that it is moving into phase one of its route map through and out of the crisis. Remote working remains the default position for those who can; however, the construction sector can begin preparing ‘nonessential’ sites to resume work and the housing market will also prepare for a safe re-opening.

The various guidance documents are slightly confusing but according to the Construction Scotland website there is a construction restart plan which states there is evidence that "the industry has the expertise and capability and is ready to reconfigure its workplaces to minimise the spread of the virus, and to work in a physically distanced manner at all times (with risk assessed and controlled close working where necessary)". Phase one of this plan involves the advance preparation of sites in line with Working on site during the covid-19 pandemic: Construction Guidance to facilitate physical distancing and enhanced hygiene.

There is no set date yet to move to phase 2, a soft re-start, and the Scottish Government has confirmed that this will only happen when it is safe to do so and in line with public health advice.

The Self-Employment Income Support Scheme is still open for eligible self-employed individuals to submit a claim to receive a grant worth 80% of average trading profits, up to a maximum of £7,500, covering three months from March to May 2020. The grant will be subject to taxation and paid in a single instalment within six working days of a claim being submitted. There is currently no deadline for submitting for a claim.

Thank you to everyone that has completed the Construction Leadership Council people survey. Please take 10 minutes to help us understand the implications of a reduced workload on the construction workforce by submitting your response by Friday 5 June.

Businesses should continue to follow the most up-to-date government guidance and for the latest updates please follow Build UK on Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any construction-specific queries or feedback on what is happening within the industry, please contact Build UK.