Build UK Daily Update
Source – Build UK
Coronavirus (COVID‐19) has had a significant impact on construction projects across the country. Whilst the majority of infrastructure projects were able to implement the Site Operating Procedures without too many delays, city centre building sites and those with limited space have taken time to adjust to the new ways of working.
We know that further support is required on a number of issues, including credit insurance, supply of materials, relaxation of restricted working hours, PPE, close working and accommodation for workers, and Build UK is working to provide additional guidance where we can. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is also looking at a recovery plan for the industry and how to release workers from furlough in a phased manner. Following its Statement on Payment and Contracts earlier this month, the CLC also continues to call for collaborative ways of working to avoid costly contractual disputes which are more than likely to result in insolvencies.
Whilst construction clients have responded in different ways, the Government has been very clear on the response expected from public sector clients. Earlier this month the Cabinet Office published supplementary Guidance Notes for Construction Contracts to support contracting authorities in implementing PPN 02/20 ‐ Supplier Relief due to COVID‐19.
PPN 02/20 applies until 30 June 2020 to all contracts let under the:
- Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR)
- Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011
- Utilities Contracts Regulations 2016
- Concession Contracts Regulations 2016.