Builder’s campaign aims to save jobs

May 8 2009 by Chris Knox, The Journal

The firm is also calling for an audit of empty buildings by local authorities to identify properties needing attention, at a time when the country needs 240,000 additional housing units a year and only 60,000 are being built.

Neil Jukes, area leader for Rok in Newcastle, said: “Many people are unaware of the tax inequality that allows those building new homes to be exempt, while those making improvements to existing properties are charged at 15%.

“With unemployment increasing and an increasingly desperate need for low-cost housing, Rok believes the general public should get involved.”