AN OSWESTRY housebuilder has spoken of her pride at being selected to represent women in her industry at an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) to launch a new campaign.

‘I am a Housebuilder’ will run during March, which is Women’s History Month, and is designed to increase the number of women in the housebuilding industry.

Charlotte Edwards, from Oswestry, runs family firm Dennis Edwards Homes, building 15 houses per year locally and is passionate about encouraging other women into the industry.

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She said she was delighted to be asked to take part in the campaign.

“I was thrilled to be approached to join this initiative,” said Charlotte.

“Although it is a male-dominated environment, I have found my place in this industry.

“I believe women bring a unique set of characteristics to housebuilding, including multi-tasking, creativity and empathy which can only benefit the end customer.

“I look forward to continuing my work, speaking at industry events to inspire and educate other aspiring female housebuilders.

“My purpose is greater than myself and I intend to hold the door open to other women who want to join me in this industry and do my part to help solve the housing crisis we currently face in the UK.”

The APPG for SME Housebuilders is a cross-party forum building political consensus to create the best environment for regional SME housebuilders to thrive, and to encourage new entrants to gain a foothold in the sector.

The I am a Housebuilder campaign will focus on the below three pledges, which will be rolled out throughout 2024 and will culminate in an industry networking event in Parliament, to bring politicians, partners, allies and female housebuilders together.

Andrew Lewer, MP For Northampton South and chairman of the APPG, is behind the new initiative.

He said: “We need to reshape the public perception of the housebuilding industry.

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“The antiquated view held by some is harming the future growth of the industry – preventing us from seeing diversity, causing a skills shortage and depriving the industry from accessing a pool of incredible talent.

“We want to put an end to this once and for all. It’s time for the industry and the legislature to work together to reverse the decline of SME housebuilders and encourage more women into the sector.

“By increasing diversity, we will open this great industry to more innovation and growth, which will be a major step towards rebalancing the housebuilding sector as a whole.”