South: Housebuilder to open 12 construction sites

The Southampton division of Barratt and David Wilson Homes has announced plans to start a phased re-opening of its construction sites, with preparation works beginning on site on Monday May 11, ready for the re-introduction of contractors on May 18.

Twelve sites across Dorset, West Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight will be re-opened, including Hawthorn meadows and St George’s Gate on the Isle of Wight, Saxon Corner in Emsworth, Highgrove Gardens in and King’s Chase in Romsey, and New Quarter and Heritage Quarter in Bordon. Work is being prioritised on already-sold plots at advanced stages of construction.

In line with the lockdown retail regulations, the company is not reopening its sales centres or show homes yet, but will continue to look after its customers remotely. Anyone looking to buy a new home at their developments can still do so by getting in touch with Barratt Homes.

A detailed set of working practices and protocols has been developed by Barratt so that its construction sites can operate safely and in line with the latest guidance from Government, Public Health Authorities and the Construction Leadership Council. This includes changes to signage, site welfare facilities and compounds, site access and walkways. These measures have already successfully been implemented on one of its sites as a pilot. A nominated Social Distancing Marshal will also be present on all sites to ensure compliance and the company will provide induction, training and support for its employees and sub-contractors.

Jon Green, managing director for the Southampton region at Barratt and David Wilson Homes, said: “Our first priority is the health and safety of our employees, sub-contractors and customers. We have created a detailed set of working practices and protocols for employees and sub-contractors to ensure that we can reopen our construction sites safely, in a phased and measured way, which minimises risk. In line with our commitment to put our customers first, we will be prioritising the completion of those homes that our customers have already exchanged or reserved.

“I would also like to thank our employees who have been fantastic during this challenging time, both those who have worked hard to get us ready to restart and our employees who are not currently working.”

Jon Green added: “As a business committed to doing the right thing we have been supporting the NHS and our communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We have donated PPE to local NHS services and defibrillators to St John’s Ambulance from our sites across the region and are working with charities and organisations to help local communities. We are also encouraging staff to volunteer and use their time to do whatever they can to help people during this difficult period.”