Bellway to reopen construction sites

Housebuilder Bellway is to reopen construction sites on a phased basis from 4 May. The decision follows announcements from Taylor Wimpey, Vistry Group, Persimmon and Redrow. It ended construction activity on 23 March following the government-mandated lockdown in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The government has since issued guidance that sites should continue to operate where they comply with the Construction Leadership Council’s operating procedures. Bellway said it had developed measures to ensure social distancing on site. It said the recommencement of construction works would enable Bellway to complete sales on a number of new homes, but added this would be dependent on customers and supply chains. Since lockdown Bellway has extended the maturity dates of £125m in tranches due to expire this financial year. It has also been confirmed as an eligible issuer for the government’s Covid Corporate Financing Facility with a limit of £300m.   To send feedback, e-mail emma.rosser@egi.co.uk or tweet @EmmaARosser or @estatesgazette