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rules-based planning processes; incentives for careers in construction, and accelerated workforce training,” Ranald says. STARK UK’ s suggested solutions include lowering both deposits for buyers and developer finance costs for construction projects, cutting upfront taxes such as stamp duty, accelerating skills programmes, reducing or removing VAT on both building materials and the retrofitting of vacant properties, making it easier for developers to work with housing associations through reform of Section 106 regulations, and fixing planning delays— which Ranald believes could quite possibly involve the use of AI.“ So far, we have launched a petition, published on the government website, issued a State of the Nation report, setting out these challenges and solutions, and are amplifying builders’ voices by sharing their personal stories of struggle and also opportunity. We want to be heard loudly and publicly,” describing the campaign as a
“ collective endeavour to put the backbone back into the UK economy through construction”, aiming to shift it back into a sustainable and high-momentum position.
As one of the UK’ s largest builders’ merchants, we have a responsibility to lead by example
Sustainability strategy
Sustainability is firmly embedded in the way STARK UK operates and supports its customers. The company sees it not as a standalone initiative but as part of an overall effort to improve efficiency, reduce costs, manage risk and help clients navigate market 42