Editor’s Note: Building a future

A recent survey has shown that building and construction costs have “normalised” (see page 68), which is good news.

Canterbury has a plentiful number of construction companies, architects, structural engineers, and clients associated with the building industry, not to mention their subcontractors. From new commercial, civic, and residential builds to renovations and refresh projects, the build industry impacts across all walks of life.

Many companies took a hit with supply shortages, thanks to Covid-19, so it’s good news that slowly yet surely the industry is finding its feet again. Building consents have slowed, supply disruptions have decreased, and most costs have stayed relatively stable since the end of 2023, meaning less pressure on those in the construction field.

Flatter costs mean builders can price jobs more accurately, and consumers can be more confident that their final price won’t have spiralled by the time a job has
been completed.

Spiralling costs is one reason why not just houses, but also projects such as the Christ Church Cathedral reconstruction have been reassessed, and either mothballed or downsized.

That’s another reason to be thankful that costs have stablised, at least for the immediate future. If you are planning on buying, or building, now might be a good time to do so.

This issue is full of news, and advice relating to homes, living, and building, along with its regular fashion, health and cuisine sections. Sit down, relax, and enjoy your read.