Labour's push to a 'big build', must include small builders to ensure regional growth is felt across all parts of the UK, said the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to Keir Starmer’s announcement on a ‘decade of national renewal’.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB said: "Big build is a welcome ambition for an industry that has been mired by issues for decades, resulting in small local, builders delivering fewer and fewer homes, to the detriment of local communities. The return to gentle densification, last seen in the 18th and 19th centuries has all the building blocks to help SMEs regain their share of the market, which has been dominated by a few major companies over recent years. It’s encouraging that Labour is tackling the emotive issue of the green belt, with the so called 'grey belt' which has restricted sensible and sustainable development for too long.

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"The announcement on new towns is a good idea to promote regional growth and deliver new homes, but it’s essential that local builders are part of this process. By bringing SMEs on board with new town development this will ensure high quality and diverse housing is delivered, while also creating wider benefits, like vocational skills opportunities. Coupled with Monday's announcement to reform the antiquated planning system, announced by Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves, this could all add up to a renaissance for small, local builders."