Delivering Infrastructure
Build UK has joined the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)and other industry organisations in signing a joint letter urging the incoming Prime Minister to ‘stay the course’ with current infrastructure plans, as set out in the 10‐Year Infrastructure Strategy, in order to create jobs, boost regional prosperity and drive economic growth.
With Andy Burnham due to be appointed Prime Minister next week, we will be highlighting how the Infrastructure Pipeline, which sets out £725 billion of projects and programmes over the next decade, will provide businesses with the certainty and confidence they need to invest, helping to meet his ambitions for ‘decent infrastructure in all parts of the UK’ and the ‘regeneration of places’.
The Government is pushing ahead with plans to speed up the delivery of infrastructure projects, and its response to the consultation on streamlining the planning process for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) sets out the new measures that will be taken forward. These include removing the statutory requirement to consult prior to submitting a Development Consent Order; ensuring earlier technical input from the Planning Inspectorate; and new decision stage guidance to clarify the process for making decisions and judicial review. The Government has laid legislation before Parliament to enable the key reforms to commence on 24 July 2026.
Is Your Work Award-Worthy? We Think It Might Be.
What makes an award-winning project?
Is it the scale? The complexity? The craftsmanship? The teamwork?
At the UK Fencing Awards, we know there isn’t just one answer. Every year, we receive entries that demonstrate innovation, technical expertise, outstanding customer service and a genuine commitment to raising standards across the fencing industry.
If you’ve completed a project you’re proud of, developed a talented apprentice, worked alongside a supplier who consistently delivers, or know someone whose contribution deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you.
This year’s awards will be held on 12th November at Old Trafford, where we’ll be joined by our guest speaker, Sir Geoff Hurst, for an evening celebrating the very best our industry has to offer.
Award Categories
- Agricultural & Equine
- Domestic
- Gates & Barriers
- Industrial
- Sports & Education
- Security
- Temporary Fencing & Hoarding
- Highways & Railways
- Supplier of the Year
- Project of the Year
- Apprentice of the Year
- Women in Fencing
We’re also continuing to welcome nominations for the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising individuals whose dedication has made a lasting impact on the fencing industry.
Lifetime Achievement nominations: info@theafi.co.uk
Enter now!
Managing and living with Diabetes – new training
Driving for Better Business partner Transformotion, have launched 4 interactive driver lessons on managing and living with Diabetes; a condition that affects over 100 million professional drivers around the world.
The modules are available on their app platform, and are based on expertise from the Diabetes Safety Organisation and the guidance from Driving for Better Business.
They are offering 2 promo codes; one to access the new Diabetes module, and one to access 3 lessons in other modules on the platform.
To get started, head to https://app.tod.training/ and create an account. If you have questions about the platform, please email enquiries@transformotion.ie
DfBB promo codes mean that you can access the module and lessons for free. Create an account, click on the key icon, scroll to promo code and enter ‘DFBB’. That will unlock the module.
In addition, they’re offering 3 complimentary lessons from any module, exclusively for DfBB readers. Enter ‘DFBB2’ to unlock 3 lessons of your choice. Access the App
Planning Ahead: Why Early Exhibitors Are Choosing FenceX 2027
With FenceX 2027 now firmly underway, more businesses are taking advantage of the opportunity to secure their stand early and begin planning for what promises to be another outstanding event for the fencing and perimeter security industry.
Taking place on Thursday 23 September 2027 at NAEC Stoneleigh, Hall 1, FenceX has become the UK’s dedicated exhibition for the fencing sector, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, contractors and industry professionals for a day of innovation, networking and business development.
While the exhibition may still be over two years away, many exhibitors recognise the value of booking early. Securing a stand now not only guarantees a place at the industry’s flagship event, but also provides the best opportunity to choose a preferred location and incorporate FenceX into long-term marketing and product launch plans.
Early Bird Booking Available
The AFI’s Early Bird Booking Scheme allows exhibitors to secure their indoor stand with just a 10% deposit, making it easier to spread the cost while confirming participation well in advance.
Following the record-breaking success of FenceX 2025, interest in the 2027 event continues to grow, with a mix of returning exhibitors and businesses planning to exhibit for the first time.
Whether your objective is to launch new products, strengthen customer relationships or reach new audiences, FenceX offers a unique opportunity to put your business in front of the people who matter most.
If you’re considering exhibiting, now is the ideal time to start the conversation.
For further information, stand availability or a copy of the latest floorplan, contact the FenceX team at fencex@theafi.co.uk or go to www.fencex.com
Member Benefit Spotlight: Expert Legal & Business Advice
Running a fencing business means dealing with much more than fencing. Contracts, customer disputes, employment matters and health & safety legislation can all become part of day-to-day life.
That’s why AFI membership includes access to expert advice, giving you practical support when you need it most.
Your AFI Member Benefits
✔ One hour of FREE advice on construction law, contracts and dispute resolution
✔ FREE advice on employment issues, including disciplinary matters, redundancy and ill health
✔ FREE advice on all health & safety matters
✔ 10% discount on further contract advice, should you require additional support
Whether you’re reviewing a contract before signing, dealing with a customer dispute, managing an employment issue or looking for guidance on health & safety, expert advice is only a phone call away.
Taking advice early can often prevent small issues becoming costly problems, helping you protect both your business and your reputation.
If you would like to access these member benefits or find out more, simply log in to the member area, or contact the AFI office info@theafi.co.uk and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.
Helping you get more from your AFI membership