Security Firms Warn of Rise in UK Building Site Thefts Amid Christmas Shutdown
Security firms in the UK are reporting an increase in building-site thefts, now involving organised criminal groups, with concerns of a surge during the upcoming Christmas shutdown.
These thefts have targeted copper cables, tools, and large equipment such as telehandlers and diggers, resulting in losses running into tens of thousands of pounds per incident. The National Federation of Builders estimates that tool theft costs the construction industry approximately £100 million annually, with small- and medium-sized enterprises experiencing widespread impact.
The Christmas festive shutdown, which may last up to two weeks, leaves sites unattended and increases their vulnerability. Criminals exploit the long winter nights and darkness, aided by the availability of cordless battery-powered angle grinders that facilitate break-ins.
Kingdom Systems, a security firm overseeing security operations, and Kingdom Services, which runs CCTV at over 100 sites across Scotland and northern England, have noted the rising risk. Gordon Worsley, associated with these firms, has commented on the heightened threat levels.
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is advocating for harsher penalties for tool theft, supporting a government bill currently progressing through Parliament. CIOB staff have cited concerns from SMEs regarding the high costs of replacing stolen tools.
Deterrent measures recommended include improving lighting and centralising storage and containers on site to enhance monitoring.
