M.P Sturgess Building & Brickwork Ltd

10/06/2026

Renovate, or knock it down and start again?

It is a question we get asked more than you might think - and the answer is rarely obvious.

Sometimes the existing structure is worth working with. Sometimes it is genuinely holding the project back.

In our latest blog we have laid out the key things to consider: costs, planning restrictions, VAT differences, energy performance, and when a new build actually makes more financial sense than a renovation.

Blog live on our website now.

21/05/2026

Planning permission ?

You might not need it…

Permitted development rights allow most homeowners to build extensions, loft conversions and outbuildings without a full planning application - if the project stays within certain limits.

But PD rights are not universal, and getting it wrong can be expensive.

We have put together a clear blog on what usually qualifies, what the limits are, and what to check before you start. Website blog linked in bio.

04/05/2026

Congratulations to Steve Norman, our Commercial Director, who completed the London Marathon last weekend in 4:49:17.
He picked up an injury in the week before the race, which made finishing all the more impressive.

Steve ran to raise money for Bliss, a charity that supports premature and sick babies and their families.

If you can spare a donation, search for Steve Norman at 2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com

(Or read our blog and use the link at the bottom!)

30/04/2026

Big changes are coming to new builds in England.

In March 2026, the government published the Future Homes Standard: new regulations that will reshape how homes are designed and built from 2027 onwards.

The headline? Gas boilers are out. Solar panels are in. And the fabric of the building itself needs to work much harder from day one.

If you are planning a new build, now is the time to understand what this means for your project - before the regulations come into force.

We’ve written a full breakdown on our blog. Link in bio.

07/04/2026

Not all the value in a build is visible.

More and more homeowners are asking us about energy efficiency, and for good reason... bills are still high, and running a home isn’t cheap.

In our latest blog, we’ve broken down what makes a home perform well in 2026, including:
– Where the biggest heat loss usually happens
– The updates to Building Regs you should actually care about
– Why insulation, glazing, and layout still matter more than fancy tech

Head to our website to read it.

31/03/2026

18/03/2026

Can we buy you a coffee? ☕

On Wednesday 25th March, we’re hosting a coffee morning at Little Red Roaster in support of Forest Holme Hospice, a charity doing incredible work locally.

We would like to invite you, your friends and your colleagues to drop in for a coffee, some cake and a catch up.

📍 The Little Red Roaster Coffee Shop, Ashley Cross (18 Station Road, Ashley Cross, Poole BH14 8UB)
🗓 Wednesday 25th March
🕙 Drop in anytime between 10am – 2pm

MPS Building Ltd be covering the coffee and cake bill, all we ask is if you enjoy it, you pop a small donation in the bucket for the hospice.

The day will provide some fantastic networking opportunities, some great coffee and cakes and most importantly raise some funds for the Hospice. If you can make it please just drop us a comment or message so we have a rough idea of numbers.

You can also visit the hospice website for insights into the great work they do: www.forestholmehospice.org.uk

05/03/2026

Spring might just be the best time of year to kick off a build.

Longer days, better weather, fewer delays… and if you start now, there’s a good chance you’ll be wrapping up before Christmas if all things go to plan!

We’ve put together a new blog breaking down why this season sets your project up for success, including real stats on weather, availability, and timelines.

🔗 Visit our website to read the full blog

23/02/2026

Thinking of starting a build in 2026?

Choosing the right builder isn’t just about comparing quotes, it’s about finding someone you trust to deliver your vision, communicate clearly, and treat your project with care.

We’ve written a quick guide to help you make the right decision, covering the things clients often forget to ask.

Blog now live on our website.

04/02/2026

Small doesn’t have to mean limiting.

Some of our favourite builds have been on narrow plots or compact extensions, where it’s all about smart design and thoughtful choices.

Think hidden storage, multi-use spaces, and layouts that actually work with the way you live.

We’ve just published a blog about how we approach smaller builds – and how the little things (like lighting, flow, and joinery) make the biggest difference.

Have a read via the link in our bio.