19 February 2014
An exclusive Ipsos MORI poll commissioned to mark the launch of this May’s National Custom & Self Build Week (NCSBW) has shown that there are now over 1 million more potential self-builders in the UK than last year.
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One in seven of the population (around 7 million people) are considering self-building, up from one in eight in 2013. The survey also revealed that interest in custom-build is growing, fuelled by shows such as ‘George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces’ and ‘Grand Designs’.
This growing interest in the sector is one of the reasons why the focus of this year’s event has widened to include custom build, alongside self build. The week is organised by the National Self Build Association (NaSBA) and runs in conjunction with the Grand Designs Live exhibition (3-11 May). Many of the main events will take place during the Grand Designs Live show at London’s ExCel, though there will also be scores of other activities happening all around the country.
NaSBA is keen for everyone to get involved and is offering inspiration and tips via an Action Handbook for individuals and organisations wishing to organise an event. This can can be downloaded from the NaSBA website here. For those considering taking part, events can also be listed on this website.
The Government is very keen to see the self and custom build sectors grow. Housing Minister Kris Hopkins MP commented: “The events that are organised during NCSBW will showcase the many ways people have turned their dream of building their own home into a reality. All the evidence shows that there are millions of people who want to be involved in building a home for themselves in the UK”.
British architect and television presenter George Clarke is also a big supporter of the week. “I’m proud to be associated with NCSBW. Self-building your own home has to be one of the most rewarding things you can do in life. It’s an opportunity for people to create something truly unique, a building that that they can truly call their very own.”
