Mace is to continue to suspend activity on its construction sites until 31 March, following an initial 48-hour closure while it works out how to implement coronavirus safety measures.
The government has issued guidance that construction firms are permitted to carry on working as long as Public Health England guidance is followed at all times.
The group’s chief executive Mark Reynolds said: “We are still currently exploring measures that may allow us to operate a number of sites while adhering to the CLC’s Standard Operating Procedures. In particular, we are reviewing the impact on public transport networks in London and are considering what alternative travel arrangements can be introduced. As a result, we have decided to extend our temporary site suspension until at least 08:00 on Tuesday 31 March while our review continues. As such, no construction work, other than safety critical work or activities required to protect or secure construction projects, will take place for the remainder of this week and Monday.”
The firm said the current guidance on social distancing was likely to be in place “for many months, perhaps throughout this year”.
Reynolds added: “It is absolutely vital to our national interest that parts of the economy are able to resume operations in some way, to deliver essential works and preserve our critical construction and manufacturing capability. We continue to work closely with the Construction Leadership Council and other bodies to establish and share best practice on how the industry is able to safely operate in line with Public Health England guidelines.
“This is a critical moment for the future of our country and our economy, and we must act responsibly and develop a coordinated and collective response to this crisis. Once again, I would like to thank all of our colleagues, supply chain partners and clients for their support during this complex and challenging time.”
