Friday update

I would have expected that this far into the year more certainty and clarity around the COVID situation might have been on the horizon, but once again the guidelines have changed and we are legally required to adapt to the ever-changing parameters, and return to reduced levels of freedom and social interaction.  Once again, the message from the government is far from clear and will undoubtedly lead to further confusion and frustration. It seems that despite social distancing and the enforcement of face coverings in public places, confirmed virus cases have substantially risen which perhaps comes as no surprise having seen the government urge everyone to ‘Eat Out To Help Out’, inundating local restaurants throughout August. Being the eternal optimist that I am, I do wonder if the figures could simply be justified by the increased levels of testing, identifying more asymptomatic cases that would previously have fallen under the radar and accordingly we should remain confident given that death rates have substantially decreased. More survival cases might also move us towards the ‘herd immunity’ that may eventually help us to overcome the virus.  Of course I encourage you to remain positive and trust Chief Medical Officer Chris Witty’s words that the latest measures are ‘a very short term thing’ and as Boris alludes, we hope to find ourselves in a far better place by Christmas.

On a more positive note, latest official construction output figures point to a continuing rebound for the industry. Output increased by nearly 18% in July for the third consecutive month keeping recovery firmly on track after a record 40% fall back in April. Construction is the only sector to experience growth and aside of some nervousness surrounding the BREXIT indecision I do feel that we as an industry are well placed, and that we as a business are wholly aligned to this positive trend.

Looking at new projects commencing on site, ‘Sussex Plants’ is now underway with the enabling works to facilitate 160 affordable new homes in Hailsham, East Sussex. This scheme reaffirms our position as a key contractor within the Sussex market and sees us working with new client Optivo Homes, and I am incredibly confident that we will establish the same strength of relations with them as we have done with our other Housing Association clients Clarion, Orbit, Hyde, Town & County and many others over the years. As a sizeable scheme within a sector that promises to remain buoyant post-COVID, this provides us with further confidence and reassurance going forwards that we are well-positioned for the future. This project has allowed us to welcome a new Surveyor to the team who will be based on site to work alongside Site Manager David Cahill. A very warm welcome is extended to Cameron West and I do hope you will soon feel very much a part of Team Jenner and enjoy working with us.

Aside of ongoing COVID restrictions it has been great to see local charitable golf days return to allow vital networking opportunity and social interaction in probably the safest way possible at this time, whilst playing our part to support these initiatives.  Team Jenner were out in force at the Canterbury Rugby Club day on Wednesday led by Captain Tony Collins and we are delighted to be co-sponsoring the Shepway Sports Trust Golf day for the third year running which took place today at Broome Park near Canterbury, with the Jenner contingent captained by Neil Hardley . And our boys only went and WON the day, as well as Dave Chilvers winning Nearest the Pin on the 17th hole. Great work Team Jenner!  Our involvement in these days is incredibly important to fly the Jenner flag amongst our local community and many fellow industry professionals, keeping our brand and relationships strong and supporting our valued clients. I hope all those involved didn’t embarrass themselves too greatly!

More sporting activity is underway this weekend with the annual Folkestone Channel Triathlon taking place this Sunday and with Derek Kedwell giving his time to provide vital support with the rescue canoe (I hope you aren’t kept too busy Derek!). We are a main sponsor of this event having donated PPE, fencing and the WC’s and again this is critical to enhancing our reputation by proactively supporting the communities we serve and going the extra mile to be charitable and accountable. Perhaps the perfect opportunity for those at a loose end this weekend to get some fresh air and support the participants.

Pre-emptive congratulations and the very best of luck is sent to Tony Collins who is getting married next week. Given current circumstances I’m sorry that you cannot enjoy an exotic honeymoon destination and celebrate in the manner you would no doubt have chosen, but we wish you and Kerry the very best and hope you have a wonderful day. We look forward to the photographs. The big question is, will you be flying your own drone to capture the day?

I hope you continue to welcome the ‘Friday Updates’ and feedback (good, bad or indifferent) is always welcomed.  Please do continue to inform the front of house team of any key project milestones or staff news if you would like us to share this with the wider Jenner team.

That’s all from me for another week aside of wishing you a happy and relaxing weekend and do enjoy the welcome return of some September sunshine.