construction firms figured strongly in the list of the 100 fastest growing UK firms compiled each year by The Sunday Times.
Essex facilities manager Time Facilities, co-founded by engineer Chris Heath, was in 17th place with a turnover that has increased from £338,000 in 1998 to £3.7m in 2001. Bath civil engineer Damar came in at 18: its sales have risen 121% a year since 1998.

Housebuilders Whiteoak Developments and QPC Homes were new entries at 72 and 74 respectively. Contractor Apex made the chart for the third year running, and Surrey contractor PES Group was a new entrant at 61.

Another survey, by The Economist, of Britain's 100 most powerful people included RIBA president Paul Hyett and Wilson Connolly chairman Allan Leighton.