---
title: UK housebuilders media reputation tracker – August 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Housebuilders
period: August 2026
coverage_start: '2026-08-01'
coverage_end: '2026-08-31'
date_published: '2026-09-01'
last_updated: '2026-09-01'
organisations: 9
articles_analysed: 1693
mentions: 740
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/data.json
summary: Vistry had the highest average monthly share of coverage (25.3%) among 9
  housebuilders in UK earned media from 1 August 2026 to 31 August 2026, ahead of
  Persimmon (20.9%) and Bellway (16.9%).
---

# UK housebuilders media reputation tracker: August 2026 (1 August 2026–31 August 2026)

> Vistry had the highest average monthly share of coverage (25.3%) among 9 housebuilders in UK earned media from 1 August 2026 to 31 August 2026, ahead of Persimmon (20.9%) and Bellway (16.9%). Cala Group had the most favourable net tone (+46). Omniscan analysed 1,693 articles containing 740 mentions of the housebuilders tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08

## UK Housebuilders ranking by share of coverage, August 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Vistry | 25.3% | 187 | 45% | 23% | 32% | +13 |
| 2 | Persimmon | 20.9% | 155 | 54% | 34% | 12% | +41 |
| 3 | Bellway | 16.9% | 125 | 25% | 66% | 9% | +15 |
| 4 | Barratt Redrow | 16.5% | 122 | 53% | 37% | 10% | +43 |
| 5 | Taylor Wimpey | 10.0% | 74 | 23% | 39% | 38% | −15 |
| 6 | Berkeley Group | 4.6% | 34 | 38% | 41% | 21% | +18 |
| 7 | MJ Gleeson | 2.2% | 16 | 13% | 75% | 12% | 0 |
| 8 | Crest Nicholson | 1.9% | 14 | 43% | 43% | 14% | +29 |
| 9 | Cala Group | 1.8% | 13 | 62% | 23% | 15% | +46 |

## Housebuilders in detail

### Vistry

**Vistry’s volatile visibility reflects financial pressure and affordable-housing scale**

Vistry ranked 1st of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (25.3%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 187 mentions and a net tone of +13.

In August 2026, Vistry recorded 187 mentions, 25.3% of cohort coverage and rank #1, with net sentiment of +13. Coverage focused on Financial Results & Trading. August 2026: share rose 3.9 points to 25.3% and rank moved from second to first; stories included the £350m affordable-homes funding award and reduced supplier credit cover reported by Allianz Trade. Vistry shares rose after the housebuilder secured a £350 million direct grant award under the Social and Affordable Homes Programme. The funding is intended to support delivery of more than 3,000 affordable homes and extends Vistry's Strategic Partner relationship with Homes England. Vistry secured a resolution to grant planning permission for 306 affordable homes on a brownfield site beside North Middlesex University Hospital in Edmonton. Construction is anticipated to begin later in 2026, subject to the Section 106 agreement.

Key messages:

- Vistry shares rose after the housebuilder secured a £350 million direct grant award under the Social and Affordable Homes Programme. The funding is intended to support delivery of more than 3,000 affordable homes and extends Vistry's Strategic Partner relationship with Homes England.
- Vistry secured a resolution to grant planning permission for 306 affordable homes on a brownfield site beside North Middlesex University Hospital in Edmonton. Construction is anticipated to begin later in 2026, subject to the Section 106 agreement.
- Vistry and Riverside have started phase two of the Calverley Close regeneration in Bromley, adding 32 social-rent homes. The 275-home mixed-tenure scheme is expected to complete by spring 2028.
- Vistry has agreed a forward sale of 81 affordable homes at Holme Meadows in South Wokingham to VIVID. The 343-home development forms part of wider plans for more than 1,400 homes in the area.
- The article says a £350 million taxpayer grant could provide relief to Vistry but argues that its financial problems remain unresolved.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 40.1% of Vistry's coverage (theme index 0.94, net tone −57)
- Policy & Regulation: 22.5% of Vistry's coverage (theme index 4.78, net tone +79)
- Planning & Land: 15.0% of Vistry's coverage (theme index 0.73, net tone +54)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 August 2026, proactiveinvestors.ca: [Vistry shares jump over 14% after £350 million affordable homes grant award](https://www.proactiveinvestors.ca/companies/news/1097549/vistry-shares-jump-over-14-after-350-million-affordable-homes-grant-award-1097549.html?region=ca). Vistry shares rose after the housebuilder secured a £350 million direct grant award under the Social and Affordable Homes Programme. The funding is intended to support delivery of more than 3,000 affordable homes and extends Vistry's Strategic Partner relationship with Homes England.
- 3 August 2026, showhouse.co.uk: [Vistry secures resolution to grant planning for 306 affordable homes next to North Middlesex University Hospital](https://www.showhouse.co.uk/vistry-secures-resolution-to-grant-planning-for-306-affordable-homes-next-to-north-middlesex-university-hospital/news/). Vistry secured a resolution to grant planning permission for 306 affordable homes on a brownfield site beside North Middlesex University Hospital in Edmonton. Construction is anticipated to begin later in 2026, subject to the Section 106 agreement.
- 25 August 2026, irishtimes.com: [Shares edge higher as Nvidia results loom large](https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/08/25/shares-edge-higher-as-nvidia-results-loom-large/). UK housebuilder shares rose after the government announced £10 billion of funding for lower-cost housing. Vistry gained 15.9% after receiving £350 million of initial funding to deliver more than 3,000 affordable homes.

Notable negative coverage:

- 29 August 2026, thetimes.com: [Labour’s favourite or not, Vistry’s foundations still look shaky](https://www.thetimes.com/business/economics/article/vistry-faces-land-sale-challenge-sp9gr7ngm). The article says a £350 million taxpayer grant could provide relief to Vistry but argues that its financial problems remain unresolved.
- 10 August 2026, thetimes.com: [Vistry’s ex-boss has weak foundations](https://www.thetimes.com/business/companies-markets/article/vistry-greg-fitzgerald-thames-water-htbvclv5f). The commentary examines former Vistry chief Greg Fitzgerald, comparing misfortunes at Vistry with his earlier time at Galliford Try.
- 10 August 2026, reuters.com: [Credit insurer plans to cut cover for suppliers of UK housebuilder Vistry, FT reports](https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/credit-insurer-plans-cut-cover-suppliers-uk-housebuilder-vistry-ft-reports-2026-08-10/). Reuters reported that Allianz Trade planned to reduce credit cover for Vistry suppliers, potentially increasing pressure on cash flow. Vistry shares fell more than 9%.

- [Vistry deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=vistry&view=deep-dive)
- [Vistry PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/vistry.pdf)

### Persimmon

**Persimmon returned to second place in August, when results dominated coverage**

Persimmon ranked 2nd of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (20.9%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 155 mentions and a net tone of +41.

First-half results then accompanied an August rise to 155 mentions, a 20.9% share and second place, as Persimmon raised its completion expectation to around 12,500 homes while retaining warnings about affordability and build costs. August 2026: Persimmon raised its annual home-delivery outlook after first-half volume growth, reported by Reuters. Persimmon returned to second place in August, when results dominated coverage. Persimmon reported first-half completions up 13% to 5,189 and revenue up 15% to £1.73bn, while its margin declined slightly. It raised full-year completions guidance to 12,500 and was rated a buy by the article. Persimmon Homes West Midlands donated £3,000 to Shropshire Bereavement Group through its Community Champions scheme. The funding will support volunteer recruitment and training. Deutsche Bank upgraded Persimmon to buy after describing its interim results as robust and its expected returns as resilient versus peers. The bank trimmed profit forecasts and lowered its target price slightly.

Key messages:

- Persimmon reported first-half completions up 13% to 5,189 and revenue up 15% to £1.73bn, while its margin declined slightly. It raised full-year completions guidance to 12,500 and was rated a buy by the article.
- Persimmon Homes West Midlands donated £3,000 to Shropshire Bereavement Group through its Community Champions scheme. The funding will support volunteer recruitment and training.
- Deutsche Bank upgraded Persimmon to buy after describing its interim results as robust and its expected returns as resilient versus peers. The bank trimmed profit forecasts and lowered its target price slightly.
- An investment article says Persimmon has solid fundamentals, a sound strategy and an upbeat long-term outlook, while noting an inflation challenge.
- Persimmon Homes Lancashire has appointed Diane Howcroft as land director. She joins the role after more than four years with Persimmon, most recently as head of partnership homes.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 49.7% of Persimmon's coverage (theme index 1.24, net tone +29)
- Planning & Land: 25.2% of Persimmon's coverage (theme index 1.44, net tone +23)
- Sales, Completions & Pricing: 8.4% of Persimmon's coverage (theme index 0.61, net tone +85)

Notable positive coverage:

- 6 August 2026, independent.co.uk: [Persimmon improves completion guidance despite ‘challenging’ housing market](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/persimmon-housebuilders-press-association-b3028422.html). Persimmon raised completion guidance to the upper end of its target range after higher first-half revenue, profits and completions. It said affordability and build-cost pressures continue to weigh on the market.
- 22 August 2026, whitchurchherald.co.uk: [Bereavement group receives £3,000 boost from housebuilder](https://www.whitchurchherald.co.uk/news/26484547.persimmon-homes-gives-3-000-shropshire-bereavement-group/). Persimmon Homes West Midlands donated £3,000 to Shropshire Bereavement Group through its Community Champions scheme. The funding will support volunteer recruitment and training.
- 10 August 2026, sharecast.com: [Deutsche Bank raises Persimmon to 'buy'](https://www.sharecast.com/news/broker-recommendations/deutsche-bank-raises-persimmon-to-buy--23225558.html). Deutsche Bank upgraded Persimmon to buy after describing its interim results as robust and its expected returns as resilient versus peers. The bank trimmed profit forecasts and lowered its target price slightly.

Notable negative coverage:

- 12 August 2026, bbc.co.uk: [Housebuilder blocked from axing £573k of affordable housing contribution](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpq8p2gr4r3o). South Lanarkshire Council rejected Persimmon's attempt to remove a £573,720 affordable-housing contribution from its Lesmahagow development. Persimmon said it would proceed with the scheme despite unexpected site costs.
- 31 August 2026, cityam.com: [Ladbrokes-owner and Aston Martin slated to drop in FTSE reshuffle](https://www.cityam.com/ladbrokes-owner-and-aston-martin-on-chopping-block-in-ftse-reshuffle/). Persimmon is expected to be relegated from the FTSE 100 amid a depressed property market. The company has also warned that supply-chain inflation could affect second-half profitability.
- 6 August 2026, bloomberg.com: [Persimmon Sees More Inflationary Pressure Next Year on Iran War](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-08-06/persimmon-sees-more-inflationary-pressure-next-year-on-iran-war). Persimmon expects additional inflationary pressure in 2027 linked partly to the Middle East conflict. It said efficiency measures may not fully offset the impact.

- [Persimmon deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=persimmon&view=deep-dive)
- [Persimmon PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/persimmon.pdf)

### Bellway

**Bellway’s visibility swung between planning and trading news**

Bellway ranked 3rd of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (16.9%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 125 mentions and a net tone of +15.

In August 2026, Bellway recorded 125 mentions, 16.9% of cohort coverage and rank #3, with net sentiment of +15. Coverage focused on corporate performance as Bellway exceeded completions guidance, reported softer demand and called for stamp-duty and first-time-buyer support. August 2026: share rose 8.2 points to 16.9% and rank improved from fifth to third; stories included 9,695 full-year completions and calls for stamp-duty and first-time-buyer support. Bellway's first four Passivhaus homes at Perceval Grange in Midhurst achieved airtightness below the Passivhaus requirement. The eight-home scheme uses heat pumps, solar panels, timber frames, mechanical ventilation and rainwater harvesting. Bellway has released images of its 179-home Oakwood development at Wynyard Park, including 32 affordable homes. Sales activity has begun and showhomes are planned for autumn. Bellway describes research into optimising air source heat pumps for new homes ahead of the Future Homes Standard. It says the findings have informed its house-type standards and follows more than 1,000 ASHP homes built over the past two years.

Key messages:

- Bellway reported FY26 completions of 9,695 homes, exceeding its guidance and up 11% year-on-year. It expects underlying profit of about £320m and called for stamp duty and first-time-buyer support.
- Bellway's first four Passivhaus homes at Perceval Grange in Midhurst achieved airtightness below the Passivhaus requirement. The eight-home scheme uses heat pumps, solar panels, timber frames, mechanical ventilation and rainwater harvesting.
- Bellway has released images of its 179-home Oakwood development at Wynyard Park, including 32 affordable homes. Sales activity has begun and showhomes are planned for autumn.
- Bellway describes research into optimising air source heat pumps for new homes ahead of the Future Homes Standard. It says the findings have informed its house-type standards and follows more than 1,000 ASHP homes built over the past two years.
- Bellway has appointed Guv Singh as land director for its West Midlands division. The article also notes Bellway's selective land-investment approach amid softer demand.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 56.0% of Bellway's coverage (theme index 1.42, net tone +3)
- Planning & Land: 15.2% of Bellway's coverage (theme index 0.77, net tone +11)
- Sales, Completions & Pricing: 14.4% of Bellway's coverage (theme index 1.17, net tone +33)

Notable positive coverage:

- 11 August 2026, building.co.uk: [Bellway beats completions guidance with 9,700-home build](https://www.building.co.uk/news/bellway-beats-completions-guidance-with-9700-home-build/5143615.article). Bellway reported FY26 completions of 9,695 homes, exceeding its guidance and up 11% year-on-year. It expects underlying profit of about £320m and called for stamp duty and first-time-buyer support.
- 27 August 2026, theargus.co.uk: [Housebuilder exceeds efficiency standards with first ultra-green homes](https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/26493481.bellway-passivhaus-homes-midhurst-beat-efficiency-target/). Bellway's first four Passivhaus homes at Perceval Grange in Midhurst achieved airtightness below the Passivhaus requirement. The eight-home scheme uses heat pumps, solar panels, timber frames, mechanical ventilation and rainwater harvesting.
- 14 August 2026, estatesgazette.co.uk: [First look at Bellway's 179-home Wynyard scheme](https://www.estatesgazette.co.uk/news/first-look-at-bellways-179-home-wynyard-scheme/). Bellway has released images of its 179-home Oakwood development at Wynyard Park, including 32 affordable homes. Sales activity has begun and showhomes are planned for autumn.

Notable negative coverage:

- 11 August 2026, aol.com: [UK's Bellway cautions on annual profit as demand, costs deepen housing slump](https://www.aol.com/articles/uks-bellway-flags-uncertainty-near-062057000.html). Bellway guided annual operating profit to the lower end of its prior range as demand softened and costs rose. Completions exceeded guidance, but its order book declined and it warned that near-term conditions remain uncertain.
- 11 August 2026, reuters.com: [UK's Bellway flags near-term demand uncertainty](https://www.reuters.com/business/uks-bellway-flags-uncertainty-near-term-view-2026-08-11/). Bellway flagged uncertainty in near-term demand and forecast fiscal 2026 underlying operating profit at the lower end of its previous range, citing higher build costs and moderating consumer demand.
- 11 August 2026, bbc.co.uk: [Great Dunmow new homes have 'shocking' water pressure, say owners](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cg7my1xjjz9o). Residents at Great Dunmow Grange reported prolonged poor water pressure at the new-build development. Bellway Homes said construction of a new school was causing the issue, while Affinity Water cited demand pressures at the extensive development.

- [Bellway deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=bellway&view=deep-dive)
- [Bellway PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/bellway.pdf)

### Barratt Redrow

**Barratt Redrow leads despite a volatile monthly profile**

Barratt Redrow ranked 4th of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (16.5%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 122 mentions and a net tone of +43.

August's fourth-place position accompanied a broader mix of placemaking, local community activity, sales promotion, planning and share-market coverage rather than one dominant corporate event. August 2026: share fell 10.4 percentage points to 16.5%, volume declined by 54 and rank moved from first to fourth; stories included the launch of the Great Places placemaking framework. A couple explain why they stopped renovating homes and bought a Barratt Homes new-build at Martello Lakes in Hythe. Their purchase used part exchange and included £18,000 cashback. Barratt Redrow shares rose 3.35% to £3.15 in Tuesday trading, outperforming the broader market. The shares remained 23.3% below their 52-week high. Barratt Homes' first-time-buyer study identifies Burnley as the UK's most affordable location for first-time buyers. The company highlights its Deposit Boost scheme to help eligible buyers purchase new homes.

Key messages:

- A couple explain why they stopped renovating homes and bought a Barratt Homes new-build at Martello Lakes in Hythe. Their purchase used part exchange and included £18,000 cashback.
- Barratt Redrow shares rose 3.35% to £3.15 in Tuesday trading, outperforming the broader market. The shares remained 23.3% below their 52-week high.
- Barratt Homes' first-time-buyer study identifies Burnley as the UK's most affordable location for first-time buyers. The company highlights its Deposit Boost scheme to help eligible buyers purchase new homes.
- Barratt Redrow launched its Great Places placemaking framework for future developments across its brands. The framework assesses design, nature, active travel, community facilities and long-term stewardship.
- Barratt Redrow and Redrow group companies are among claimants pursuing claims over historic StoTherm cladding installations, with alleged remediation costs reported. The allegations and liabilities against the relevant defendants remain largely unresolved.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 23.8% of Barratt Redrow's coverage (theme index 0.52, net tone +21)
- Sales, Completions & Pricing: 18.9% of Barratt Redrow's coverage (theme index 1.64, net tone +65)
- Planning & Land: 18.9% of Barratt Redrow's coverage (theme index 0.99, net tone +4)

Notable positive coverage:

- 13 August 2026, inews.co.uk: [I've flipped properties for 30 years. Here's why I've given it up for a new-build](https://inews.co.uk/inews-lifestyle/money/property-and-mortgages/flipped-properties-years-given-up-for-new-build-4701419). A couple explain why they stopped renovating homes and bought a Barratt Homes new-build at Martello Lakes in Hythe. Their purchase used part exchange and included £18,000 cashback.
- 13 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Barratt Redrow rises Thursday, outperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/barratt-redrow-rises-thursday-outperforms-market-c5364dda-cc3aeea40790). Barratt Redrow shares rose 2.37% to £3.29 during Thursday trading. The shares remained 19.91% below their 52-week high.
- 7 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Barratt Redrow climbs Friday, outperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/barratt-redrow-climbs-friday-outperforms-market-db40b882-41ccc8d974b8). Barratt Redrow shares rose 1.19% in Friday trading to £3.24. The shares remained 21.13% below their 52-week high.

Notable negative coverage:

- 20 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Barratt Redrow slides Thursday, underperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/barratt-redrow-slides-thursday-underperforms-market-77124fa3-966dbe76e569). Barratt Redrow shares fell 2.09% in Thursday trading while the FTSE 100 rose. The shares closed 24.66% below their 52-week high.
- 18 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Barratt Redrow falls Tuesday, underperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/barratt-redrow-falls-tuesday-underperforms-market-52e49452-e3aef81bf85e). Barratt Redrow shares fell 2.33% to £3.15, underperforming the FTSE 100. The stock closed 23.3% below its 52-week high.
- 13 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Firm hit with £100m in cladding court claims before collapse](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/buildings/building-safety/firm-hit-with-100m-in-cladding-court-claims-before-collapse-13-08-2026/). Barratt Redrow and Redrow group companies are among claimants pursuing claims over historic StoTherm cladding installations, with alleged remediation costs reported. The allegations and liabilities against the relevant defendants remain largely unresolved.

- [Barratt Redrow deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=barrattredrow&view=deep-dive)
- [Barratt Redrow PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/barrattredrow.pdf)

### Taylor Wimpey

**Taylor Wimpey visibility fluctuated as trading and planning shaped coverage**

Taylor Wimpey ranked 5th of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (10.0%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 74 mentions and a net tone of −15.

In August 2026, Taylor Wimpey recorded 74 mentions, 10% of cohort coverage and rank #5, with net sentiment of -15. Coverage focused on Financial Results & Trading. Taylor Wimpey shares fell 1.72% to 84.46p, underperforming a weak FTSE 100 session. The shares closed 27.77% below their 52-week high. Taylor Wimpey has launched a £41.9m share buyback programme to reduce its share capital, with repurchased shares to be cancelled. Purchases are due to conclude by December 2026. Taylor Wimpey West Scotland donated £1,500 to Include Me 2 Club through its per-plot initiative. The company has pledged £9,725 as three Barrhead developments are completed. Taylor Wimpey East Scotland made a further donation to Bathgate Thistle Community Football Club to support youth training, equipment and kit. The support is linked to the builder's community activity around its Sibbalds Wynd development.

Key messages:

- Taylor Wimpey shares fell 1.72% to 84.46p, underperforming a weak FTSE 100 session. The shares closed 27.77% below their 52-week high.
- Taylor Wimpey has launched a £41.9m share buyback programme to reduce its share capital, with repurchased shares to be cancelled. Purchases are due to conclude by December 2026.
- Taylor Wimpey West Scotland donated £1,500 to Include Me 2 Club through its per-plot initiative. The company has pledged £9,725 as three Barrhead developments are completed.
- Taylor Wimpey East Scotland made a further donation to Bathgate Thistle Community Football Club to support youth training, equipment and kit. The support is linked to the builder's community activity around its Sibbalds Wynd development.
- North Lanarkshire Council has approved Taylor Wimpey's proposed 125-home development at Carnbroe Road in Coatbridge, subject to conditions and an education contribution. The scheme includes detached, semi-detached and terraced homes plus a play area.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 54.1% of Taylor Wimpey's coverage (theme index 1.32, net tone −28)
- Planning & Land: 17.6% of Taylor Wimpey's coverage (theme index 0.91, net tone −8)
- ESG & Sustainability: 9.5% of Taylor Wimpey's coverage (theme index 1.62, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 13 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Taylor Wimpey rallies Thursday, outperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/taylor-wimpey-rallies-thursday-outperforms-market-edaac92e-2e7abb29da60?mod=mw_quote_news). Taylor Wimpey shares rose 1.83% to 86.68p during Thursday trading. The shares remained 25.87% below their 52-week high.
- 4 August 2026, propertyindustryeye.com: [Major property firm launches £41.9m share buyback](https://propertyindustryeye.com/major-property-firm-launches-41-9m-share-buyback/). Taylor Wimpey has launched a £41.9m share buyback programme to reduce its share capital, with repurchased shares to be cancelled. Purchases are due to conclude by December 2026.
- 18 August 2026, renfrewshire24.co.uk: [Taylor Wimpey West Scotland donates £1,500 to Include Me 2 Club](https://www.renfrewshire24.co.uk/2026/08/18/taylor-wimpey-west-scotland-donates-1500-to-include-me-2-club/). Taylor Wimpey West Scotland donated £1,500 to Include Me 2 Club through its per-plot initiative. The company has pledged £9,725 as three Barrhead developments are completed.

Notable negative coverage:

- 4 August 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [Deutsche Bank cuts Taylor Wimpey target on 25% profit downgrade](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/deutsche-bank-cuts-taylor-wimpey-123200555.html). Deutsche Bank reduced Taylor Wimpey's profit forecasts by up to 25% and cut its target price from 96p to 82p. The broker cited weak pricing, rising costs and a reduced dividend outlook.
- 1 August 2026, twelfthmagpie.com: [Taylor Wimpey shares: bad news for dividend investors after H1 payout slashed to just 1.2p each](https://www.twelfthmagpie.com/2026/08/01/taylor-wimpey-shares-bad-news-for-dividend-investors-after-h1-payout-slashed-to-just-1-2p-each/). Taylor Wimpey reported lower first-half operating profit, earnings and net cash, while its shares fell following the results. The company reduced its shareholder-return policy and declared a 1.2p interim dividend, down from 4.67p a year earlier.
- 17 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Taylor Wimpey slides Monday, underperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/taylor-wimpey-slides-monday-underperforms-market-eac70d37-19b7c17543d9). Taylor Wimpey shares fell 1.72% to 84.46p, underperforming a weak FTSE 100 session. The shares closed 27.77% below their 52-week high.

- [Taylor Wimpey deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=taylorwimpey&view=deep-dive)
- [Taylor Wimpey PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/taylorwimpey.pdf)

### Berkeley Group

**Berkeley’s visibility surged around strategy, planning and full-year results**

Berkeley Group ranked 6th of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (4.6%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 34 mentions and a net tone of +18.

Berkeley Group is marketing its Arch & Bloom mixed-use development in Guildford to Malaysian buyers. The 6.6-acre scheme is planned to include 485 homes, commercial space and community facilities, with completion expected in 2031. A syndicated investment outlook identifies Berkeley Group as a residential developer positioned in undersupplied London and South East markets. It highlights Berkeley's land holdings, estimated future gross margin and recent share-price performance. Berkeley Group Holdings shares rose 0.79% to £35.70 as the FTSE 100 gained 0.29%. The shares remained 19.63% below their 52-week high. Berkeley highlights an apprentice's work on sustainability, digital construction and environmental auditing at its Eastbrook Village development in Milton Keynes. The Homes England and council-backed scheme is planned to deliver more than 4,600 homes alongside infrastructure and community facilities.

Key messages:

- Berkeley Group is marketing its Arch & Bloom mixed-use development in Guildford to Malaysian buyers. The 6.6-acre scheme is planned to include 485 homes, commercial space and community facilities, with completion expected in 2031.
- A syndicated investment outlook identifies Berkeley Group as a residential developer positioned in undersupplied London and South East markets. It highlights Berkeley's land holdings, estimated future gross margin and recent share-price performance.
- Berkeley Group Holdings shares rose 0.79% to £35.70 as the FTSE 100 gained 0.29%. The shares remained 19.63% below their 52-week high.
- Berkeley highlights an apprentice's work on sustainability, digital construction and environmental auditing at its Eastbrook Village development in Milton Keynes. The Homes England and council-backed scheme is planned to deliver more than 4,600 homes alongside infrastructure and community facilities.
- The article examines how rising gilt yields and mortgage costs could affect Berkeley Group and the wider UK housebuilding market. It highlights longer regeneration timelines, planning constraints, building-safety gateways and build-cost pressures.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 47.1% of Berkeley Group's coverage (theme index 1.12, net tone +25)
- Sales, Completions & Pricing: 17.6% of Berkeley Group's coverage (theme index 1.42, net tone −17)
- Policy & Regulation: 14.7% of Berkeley Group's coverage (theme index 1.65, net tone +20)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 August 2026, theedgemalaysia.com: [UK-based Berkeley Group to unveil Guildford mixed-use development in Malaysia on May 23](https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/804042). Berkeley Group is marketing its Arch & Bloom mixed-use development in Guildford to Malaysian buyers. The 6.6-acre scheme is planned to include 485 homes, commercial space and community facilities, with completion expected in 2031.
- 14 August 2026, theglobeandmail.com: [Zacks Industry Outlook Highlights The Berkeley Group and Sky Harbour](https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/stocks/SKYH/pressreleases/3848257/zacks-industry-outlook-highlights-the-berkeley-group-and-sky-harbour/). A syndicated investment outlook identifies Berkeley Group as a residential developer positioned in undersupplied London and South East markets. It highlights Berkeley's land holdings, estimated future gross margin and recent share-price performance.
- 28 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Berkeley Group Holdings rallies Friday, outperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/berkeley-group-holdings-rallies-friday-outperforms-market-bc0ddf45-a920c1b4b4fa?mod=mw_quote_news). Berkeley Group Holdings shares rose 0.79% to £35.70 as the FTSE 100 gained 0.29%. The shares remained 19.63% below their 52-week high.

Notable negative coverage:

- 27 August 2026, marketwatch.com: [Berkeley Group Holdings falls Thursday, underperforms market](https://www.marketwatch.com/data-news/berkeley-group-holdings-falls-thursday-underperforms-market-2cb2c2d4-24303a426540?mod=mw_quote_news). Berkeley Group Holdings shares fell 1.88% to £35.42 during a weak wider market session. The shares closed 20.26% below their 52-week high.
- 27 August 2026, kalkinemedia.com: [Berkeley (LSE:BKG): Does A Rate Reversal Change The London Housebuilding Equation?](https://kalkinemedia.com/uk/stocks/infrastructure-and-real-estate/berkeley-lsebkg-does-a-rate-reversal-change-the-london-housebuilding-equation). The article examines how rising gilt yields and mortgage costs could affect Berkeley Group and the wider UK housebuilding market. It highlights longer regeneration timelines, planning constraints, building-safety gateways and build-cost pressures.

- [Berkeley Group deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=berkeleygroup&view=deep-dive)
- [Berkeley Group PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/berkeleygroup.pdf)

### MJ Gleeson

**MJ Gleeson’s visibility swung between trading and planning pressures**

MJ Gleeson ranked 7th of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (2.2%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 16 mentions and a net tone of 0.

In August 2026, MJ Gleeson recorded 16 mentions, 2.2% of cohort coverage and rank #7, with net sentiment of 0. Coverage focused on Planning & Land. Gleeson Homes has applied for permission to deliver 521 homes and outline consent for up to 600 further homes, community facilities and a primary school at Lincolnshire Lakes in Scunthorpe. Gleeson Homes handed over its first affordable homes at the Waterloo Sidings development in Leeds to Home Group Housing Association. Medway Council unanimously refused Gleeson Land's application for 100 homes on a working pear orchard at Cliffe. Reasons included loss of best and most versatile farmland, landscape impacts, traffic and conflict with local-plan housing allocations. Gleeson Homes is preparing plans for 165 homes on a 16-acre site between Oxenholme and Kendal. The land is currently allocated for employment use, although the council has identified it as suitable for residential development.

Key messages:

- Gleeson Homes has applied for permission to deliver 521 homes and outline consent for up to 600 further homes, community facilities and a primary school at Lincolnshire Lakes in Scunthorpe.
- Gleeson Homes handed over its first affordable homes at the Waterloo Sidings development in Leeds to Home Group Housing Association.
- Medway Council unanimously refused Gleeson Land's application for 100 homes on a working pear orchard at Cliffe. Reasons included loss of best and most versatile farmland, landscape impacts, traffic and conflict with local-plan housing allocations.
- Gleeson Homes is preparing plans for 165 homes on a 16-acre site between Oxenholme and Kendal. The land is currently allocated for employment use, although the council has identified it as suitable for residential development.

Leading themes:

- Planning & Land: 75.0% of MJ Gleeson's coverage (theme index 4.21, net tone −8)
- Financial Results & Trading: 6.3% of MJ Gleeson's coverage (theme index 0.15, net tone 0)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 6.3% of MJ Gleeson's coverage (theme index 1.56, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 12 August 2026, insidermedia.com: [Plans in for more than 1,100 homes, school and community facilities - a "sustainable development with significant benefits](https://www.insidermedia.com/news/yorkshire/plans-in-for-more-than-1100-homes-school-and-community-facilities-a-sustainable-development-with-significant-benefits). Gleeson Homes has applied for permission to deliver 521 homes and outline consent for up to 600 further homes, community facilities and a primary school at Lincolnshire Lakes in Scunthorpe.
- 7 August 2026, insidermedia.com: [Gleeson hands over affordable homes at Leeds development](https://www.insidermedia.com/news/yorkshire/gleeson-hands-over-affordable-homes-at-leeds-development). Gleeson Homes handed over its first affordable homes at the Waterloo Sidings development in Leeds to Home Group Housing Association.

Notable negative coverage:

- 27 August 2026, kentonline.co.uk: [Decision made on 100-home application for working orchard](https://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway/news/decision-made-on-100-home-application-for-working-orchard-344401/). Medway Council unanimously refused Gleeson Land's application for 100 homes on a working pear orchard at Cliffe. Reasons included loss of best and most versatile farmland, landscape impacts, traffic and conflict with local-plan housing allocations.
- 20 August 2026, kentonline.co.uk: [100-homes on pear orchard would cause 'unacceptable damage to the countryside'](https://www.kentonline.co.uk/kent/news/100-homes-on-pear-orchard-would-cause-unacceptable-damage-t-344138/). Medway Council officers recommend refusing Gleeson Land's proposed 100-home development near Cliffe, citing loss of agricultural land, countryside harm and local impacts. The planning committee is due to decide the application.

- [MJ Gleeson deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=mjgleeson&view=deep-dive)
- [MJ Gleeson PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/mjgleeson.pdf)

### Crest Nicholson

**Crest Nicholson visibility surged around mounting financial pressure**

Crest Nicholson ranked 8th of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (1.9%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 14 mentions and a net tone of +29.

August’s share declined to 1.9% and eighth place as the agenda diversified into Ardmore’s administration, planning around Keynsham, the Community Wood Recycling partnership and Centrick’s appointment to the managing-agent framework. Crest Nicholson marked 15 years of recycling and reusing wood with Community Wood Recycling across 165 sites. The partnership supported employment and training while reducing timber waste. Ardmore Construction Group entered administration after being held liable to pay Crest Nicholson £14.9m over cladding defects at Admiralty Quarter. The administrator said any payment to Crest would come from insurance, with unsecured creditors unlikely to recover funds. Centrick has joined Crest Nicholson's managing-agent competency framework and can tender for development management opportunities across its regional portfolio. The arrangement supports estate and community management for residential developments.

Key messages:

- Crest Nicholson marked 15 years of recycling and reusing wood with Community Wood Recycling across 165 sites. The partnership supported employment and training while reducing timber waste.
- Ardmore Construction Group entered administration after being held liable to pay Crest Nicholson £14.9m over cladding defects at Admiralty Quarter. The administrator said any payment to Crest would come from insurance, with unsecured creditors unlikely to recover funds.
- Centrick has joined Crest Nicholson's managing-agent competency framework and can tender for development management opportunities across its regional portfolio. The arrangement supports estate and community management for residential developments.
- Developers have submitted applications for 1,895 homes around Keynsham, ahead of Bath and North East Somerset’s new Local Plan. Crest Nicholson has proposed schemes for 90 homes in Saltford and 550 homes at Hicks Gate.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 28.6% of Crest Nicholson's coverage (theme index 0.67, net tone −25)
- Building Safety & Quality: 28.6% of Crest Nicholson's coverage (theme index 12.96, net tone +50)
- Planning & Land: 21.4% of Crest Nicholson's coverage (theme index 1.13, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 11 August 2026, showhouse.co.uk: [Crest Nicholson and Community Wood Recycling celebrate 15-year circular economy partnership](https://www.showhouse.co.uk/crest-nicholson-and-community-wood-recycling-celebrate-15-year-circular-economy-partnership/sustainability-news/). Crest Nicholson marked 15 years of recycling and reusing wood with Community Wood Recycling across 165 sites. The partnership supported employment and training while reducing timber waste.
- 21 August 2026, building.co.uk: [Scale of Ardmore hit on subcontractors and taxman revealed by ...](https://www.building.co.uk/news/scale-of-ardmore-hit-on-subcontractors-and-taxman-revealed-by-administrators/5143763.article). Ardmore group companies entered administration after a High Court ruling requiring payment to Crest Nicholson over alleged fire-safety defects at Admiralty Quarter. Administrators disclosed substantial creditor and subcontractor claims.
- 21 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Subcontractors to take £5m hit in Ardmore administration](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/financial/subcontractors-to-take-5m-hit-in-ardmore-administration-21-08-2026/). Ardmore Construction Group entered administration after being held liable to pay Crest Nicholson £14.9m over cladding defects at Admiralty Quarter. The administrator said any payment to Crest would come from insurance, with unsecured creditors unlikely to recover funds.

- [Crest Nicholson deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=crestnicholson&view=deep-dive)
- [Crest Nicholson PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/crestnicholson.pdf)

### Cala Group

**Cala held ninth as planning and community stories broadened**

Cala Group ranked 9th of 9 by average monthly share of coverage (1.8%) in the UK Housebuilders benchmark for August 2026, with 13 mentions and a net tone of +46.

In August 2026, Cala Group recorded 13 mentions, 1.8% of cohort coverage and rank #9, with net sentiment of +46. Coverage focused on ESG & Sustainability. August 2026: volume increased by four to 13 and share rose 0.4 percentage points to 1.8%; stories included James Dunne’s Southern appointment and the Chippings Farm proposal update. August 2026: Cala appointed James Dunne to lead Southern expansion across a pipeline with potential for 2,500 homes, reported by Estates Gazette. Cala Homes has donated £1,500 to Electric Storm Youth in West Sussex through its Community Pledge linked to the New Monks Park development. The funding will support youth mentoring, wellbeing and activity programmes. Cala Homes is sponsoring Clan Cancer Support's inaugural Night Golf fundraising event in Newmachar. Funds raised will support cancer services across north-east Scotland and the Northern Isles.

Key messages:

- Cala Homes has appointed James Dunne as managing director of its Southern business to support expansion across the central south and south west. The region controls or has terms on 12 sites with potential for 2,500 homes.
- Cala Homes has donated £1,500 to Electric Storm Youth in West Sussex through its Community Pledge linked to the New Monks Park development. The funding will support youth mentoring, wellbeing and activity programmes.
- Cala Homes is sponsoring Clan Cancer Support's inaugural Night Golf fundraising event in Newmachar. Funds raised will support cancer services across north-east Scotland and the Northern Isles.
- Cala Homes proposes around 120 homes on Green Belt land near Lickey Hills, arguing the site should qualify as Grey Belt under NPPF policy. The Lickey Hills Society has said it will oppose the scheme when an application is submitted.

Leading themes:

- ESG & Sustainability: 38.5% of Cala Group's coverage (theme index 6.82, net tone +100)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 30.8% of Cala Group's coverage (theme index 8.6, net tone +75)
- Planning & Land: 15.4% of Cala Group's coverage (theme index 0.8, net tone −50)

Notable positive coverage:

- 12 August 2026, estatesgazette.co.uk: [Cala appoints managing director to lead Southern expansion](https://www.estatesgazette.co.uk/news/cala-appoints-managing-director-to-lead-southern-expansion/). Cala Homes has appointed James Dunne as managing director of its Southern business to support expansion across the central south and south west. The region controls or has terms on 12 sites with potential for 2,500 homes.
- 27 August 2026, edinburghnews.scotsman.com: [Livingston community garden blooms thanks to housebuilder's funding](https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/your-world/livingston-community-garden-blooms-thanks-to-housebuilders-funding-8946093). Cala Homes (East) donated £1,500 to Livingston Village Community Garden through its Community Pledge initiative linked to the nearby Pinefields development. The funding will support planters and further community planting areas.
- 21 August 2026, inyourarea.co.uk: [Cala Homes tees off for Clan Cancer Support’s inaugural Night Golf event in Newmachar](https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/cala-homes-tees-off-for-clan-cancer-supports-inaugural-night-golf-event-in-newmachar). Cala Homes is sponsoring Clan Cancer Support's inaugural Night Golf fundraising event in Newmachar. Funds raised will support cancer services across north-east Scotland and the Northern Isles.

Notable negative coverage:

- 28 August 2026, bromsgrovestandard.co.uk: [Lickey Hills Society vows to fight 120-home Green Belt proposal](https://bromsgrovestandard.co.uk/news/lickey-hills-society-vows-to-fight-120-home-green-belt-proposal-64041/). Cala Homes proposes around 120 homes on Green Belt land near Lickey Hills, arguing the site should qualify as Grey Belt under NPPF policy. The Lickey Hills Society has said it will oppose the scheme when an application is submitted.
- 28 August 2026, oxfordmail.co.uk: [Housebuilder closes village play park for a month for works](https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/26502477.oxfordshire-village-play-park-closed-month-works/). Cala is closing a play park at its Hopefield Grange development in Benson for four weeks to undertake remedial safety works. An inspection found lifted safety surfacing and grass areas requiring reseeding.

- [Cala Group deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08?entity=calagroup&view=deep-dive)
- [Cala Group PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08/reports/calagroup.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Housebuilders editions

- [UK housebuilders media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK housebuilders media reputation tracker – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-h1.md)
- [UK housebuilders media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-07.md)
- [UK housebuilders media reputation tracker – September 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-09.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK housebuilders media reputation tracker", August 2026 (1 August 2026–31 August 2026), published 1 September 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-housebuilders-2026-08