Mediation has been very much a part of the dispute resolution landscape in the construction industry for over 30 years. On 1 October 2024, a historic change to the status of alternative dispute resolution in the civil justice system took effect. Amendments to the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) came into force to promote the use of alternative dispute resolution including mediation. The amendments bring the rules in line with the Court of Appeal decision in James Churchill -v- Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council [2023].

As a result of the amendments the use of mediation is likely to increase significantly – but when is the best time to mediate?

Gowling WLG, in collaboration with the University of Manchester, are undertaking a ground-breaking research project, the aim of which is to investigate when parties mediate their disputes. What are the influences on the decision-making process? Will the new Amendments to the CPR have any impact on timing?

The start of the research project is a short questionnaire that will enable the collection of data from those using mediation. This will be invaluable to the whole research project.

Take part in the research

To take part, we’re looking for participants with practical experience of the use and timing of mediation in commercial dispute resolution. If you fit the criteria you can answer our survey by clicking on this link. We look forward to your valuable input.

This research attempts to collect data from professionals who have practical experience of the use and timing of mediation in commercial dispute resolution. If you are interested but have no genuine experience, please email the researchers peter.fenn@manchester.ac.uk or obuks.ejohwomu@manchester.ac.uk

You are being invited to take part in an online questionnaire/survey about the use and timing of mediation in dispute resolution. The research is being carried out at the University of Manchester in collaboration with Gowling WLG, a multinational law firm. Gowling WLG’s involvement is limited to circulation of the questionnaire, and they will have no access to the data you provide. In any event the questionnaire is anonymous and confidential and no personal identifiable is collected [we do NOT collect your IP address].

FIND OUT MORE HERE

The Education Landscape Programme, developed by SDN in partnership with The Gatsby Foundation, provides free, independent resources to help businesses navigate and engage with the education sector.

Key Resources:

· The Education Landscape Guide – A clear overview of the education system and how businesses can benefit from engaging with it.

· The Education Landscape Index – A practical tool outlining five key ways businesses can get involved:

1. Supporting Students – Inspire career choices through mentoring and industry talks.

2. Supporting Teaching – Share industry insights to improve education quality.

3. Providing Workplace Experience – Offer site visits, internships, or work placements.

4. Providing Expert Guidance – Help shape curricula to match industry needs.

5. Work-Based Learning – Develop talent through apprenticeships and on-the-job training.

Why Get Involved?

· Access Future Talent – Connect with skilled students and graduates.

· Upskill Employees – Support staff development through partnerships.

· Boost Brand & Influence – Strengthen industry reputation and shape the workforce.

Explore resources & get started: educationlandscape.org.uk

By engaging with education, businesses can help shape the future workforce and bridge the skills gap!

We are sad to say that Joanna Poon will be stepping down as Chair of the CE Midlands Future Skills Theme Group as she leaves her post at Derby University this month.

We would like to thank Joanna for her excellent work with the group and wish her the very best in her new role.

This leaves the theme group seeking a new Chair. If. you are already involved with the Future Skills group and are interested in stepping forward as the next Chair, please do get in touch by emailing emma.hannam@cemidlands.org

February 26, 2025

The Government has today published its response to the Grenfell Inquiry’s Phase 2 report published on 4 September 2024.

The Government has accepted 49 of the 58 recommendations in full. Regarding the remaining 9 recommendations, the Government accepts them in principle and the response document sets out how they will be implemented. Significant progress has been made to improve the safety of buildings since the tragedy of the Grenfell fire on 14 June 2017. The Government’s response builds on this work but also seeks to go further where needed.

A green paper on construction products reform has also been published. It sets out a range of proposals for construction products reform, including proposals that address the Inquiry‘s recommendations. The green paper also serves as the Government’s response to the Independent Review of Product Testing and Certification.

Mark Reynolds, Co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council and Executive Chair of Mace, said:

“We welcome the publication today of the Government’s response to the Grenfell Inquiry’s Phase 2 Report. The Inquiry’s report stated that the tragedy was a result of years of failings from the state and industry, of deregulation, and of poor practice in the construction sector. In our view, the implementation of the recommendations, as set out by the Deputy Prime Minister, will result in safer homes and buildings for those who live and work in them and improve the quality of both the work done by the construction industry, as well as the competence of those working in it.”

“The Inquiry also highlighted widespread failures by manufacturers, the construction products sector and the institutions that should have been responsible for ensuring high standards and assurance of the system. It is incumbent on us all to fully engage with and respond to the proposals for reform set out in the Construction Products Reform Green Paper published alongside the Government’s response.”

“There has been significant progress on building safety made since the Grenfell fire in June 2017, delivered through ongoing collaboration between Government and industry – but we are well aware that there is more we can and must do.”

“There must be continued collective responsibility to drive a meaningful and permanent cultural change and enhance the levels of competence in the construction sector. We will continue to work closely with the Government, regulators, industry bodies and businesses to enable the implementation of these further reforms without undue disruption to the vital work of our industry across the country.”