Tool theft on site jumps by 57%, £8 million wasted on unnecessary planning permission applications for heat pumps, and builder launches plan to save art deco cinema
Job losses linked to construction crime are up nearly 5% — that’s according to a report from BauWatch.
The research also revealed that 38% of on site workers have suffered financial losses due to crime in 2026.
Despite the crime wave, three quarters of respondents admitted that financial pressures meant on site security budgets had been cut.
BauWatch also found that thieves had switched their focus away from high value materials to more mobile assets.
It also claimed that tool theft had increased by 57% — more than 10% higher than the European average.
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Up to £8 million has been wasted on unnecessary planning permission applications for heat pumps in the last 10 years, claims Nesta.
The government has announced a consultation process to explore changes to permitted development rights (PDR), to make it easier for households to install a heat pump.
The trade body is lobbying to extend permitted development rights to Grade 2 listed buildings.
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A builder has unveiled plans to save one of Bournemouth’s ‘best loved’ landmarks.
Steve Bonner wants to stop the 1929 Odeon cinema from falling further into ruin or being converted into flats.
He believes the Art Deco building, which once hosted the Beatles, must once again serve the community.
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