And Why Serviced Accommodation Is the Smart Choice for Contractors
Introduction: Building the UK — One Project at a Time
Across the UK, cranes dot skylines, roads are upgraded, rail networks expanded, and housing developments rise at pace. From energy and transport to commercial builds and regeneration schemes, infrastructure and construction projects are booming — and with them comes a quieter but critical challenge:
Where do the people building it all actually stay?
For contractors, engineers, project managers, and site supervisors, accommodation isn’t a luxury — it’s a productivity tool. And for companies managing large-scale projects, finding reliable, cost-effective, long-stay accommodation is now a core operational concern.
This is where serviced accommodation providers like Luke Stays step in.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- Why infrastructure and construction projects create sustained accommodation demand
- The unique challenges contractors face when working away from home
- Why serviced accommodation consistently outperforms hotels
- How Luke Stays supports projects across the North East
- What contractors should look for when booking accommodation
The Link Between Construction Projects & Accommodation Demand
Infrastructure projects don’t happen overnight. Most run for months or years, often in locations where the local housing supply isn’t designed for a sudden influx of skilled workers.
Common project types driving demand include:
- Road and motorway upgrades
- Rail and transport developments
- Power, utilities, and renewable energy projects
- Commercial builds and industrial estates
- Housing developments and regeneration schemes
Each project brings:
- Rotating teams
- Long shifts
- Night work
- Extended stays away from home
Hotels, originally designed for short leisure stays, simply aren’t built for this reality.
Why Contractors Need a Different Kind of Stay
Contractors aren’t tourists. Their needs are practical, predictable, and repeatable.
After a 10–12 hour shift, what matters most is:
- Space to rest properly
- A quiet environment
- The ability to cook
- A reliable Wi-Fi connection
- Parking for work vehicles
- A consistent, hassle-free experience
Serviced accommodation answers these needs far better than traditional hotels — especially for longer stays.
The Hidden Costs of Hotels for Long-Term Projects
On paper, hotels may seem convenient. In reality, they often become expensive and inefficient over time.
Common Hotel Pain Points:
- High nightly rates for long stays
- Limited space for downtime
- Eating out every night
- Noise and lack of privacy
- No flexibility for rotating teams
- Parking restrictions or added fees
For companies managing multiple contractors, these costs add up quickly — both financially and in reduced worker wellbeing.
Serviced Accommodation: Built for Long-Term Projects
Serviced accommodation bridges the gap between hotels and traditional rentals — offering the flexibility of a hotel with the comfort of a home.
Key Benefits for Contractors:
- Fully furnished homes
- Separate bedrooms and living areas
- Full kitchens for self-catering
- Laundry facilities
- Weekly housekeeping
- Bills included
- Flexible booking lengths
This setup supports both individual contractors and full project teams, helping companies maintain productivity while controlling costs.
Why Infrastructure Projects Create Repeat & Reliable Demand
Unlike seasonal tourism, construction demand is:
- Predictable
- Long-term
- Repeat-based
Once a contractor or company finds accommodation that works, they tend to:
- Rebook for future phases
- Extend stays
- Refer other teams
- Standardise accommodation across projects
This makes serviced accommodation an ideal solution — and why providers like Luke Stays focus specifically on contractor-friendly homes.
The North East: A Growing Hotspot for Development
The North East continues to see investment across:
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- Gateshead
- Durham
- Sunderland
With infrastructure upgrades, housing expansion, and commercial developments underway, demand for reliable contractor accommodation is growing fast.
Luke Stays strategically operates across these areas, ensuring contractors can stay close to site — reducing commute times, stress, and fatigue.
What Makes Luke Stays Ideal for Construction & Infrastructure Teams?
Luke Stays isn’t just accommodation — it’s a partner for project teams.
Contractor-Focused Features:
- Spacious serviced homes
- Multiple beds for teams
- Driveway or on-street parking
- Fully equipped kitchens
- Strong Wi-Fi for reporting and admin
- Flexible check-in/check-out
- Long-stay discounts
- Fast, responsive communication
Every property is set up with working professionals in mind, not short-term tourists.
Wellbeing, Productivity & Better Project Outcomes
Fatigue, poor sleep, and long commutes directly impact:
- Safety on site
- Productivity
- Staff retention
- Project timelines
Providing contractors with comfortable accommodation isn’t just a “nice to have” — it’s a risk-reduction strategy.
Serviced homes give teams:
- Proper rest
- Space to decompress
- Routine and stability
- A sense of normality while working away
Better accommodation leads to better work.
Why Companies Are Moving Away from Hotels
More project managers and procurement teams are now:
- Pre-booking serviced accommodation blocks
- Partnering with local operators
- Locking in long-term rates
- Reducing admin with one supplier
Luke Stays simplifies this process by offering:
- Direct booking
- Clear pricing
- Flexible terms
- Consistent quality across locations
What to Look for When Booking Contractor Accommodation
If you’re responsible for booking accommodation for a project, prioritise:
- Location close to site
- Space for teams
- Parking availability
- Flexible booking terms
- Reliable communication
- Proven experience with contractors
Luke Stays checks every box.
Final Thoughts: Infrastructure Builds the Country — Luke Stays Houses the Teams
Infrastructure and construction projects will continue to grow — and so will the need for practical, cost-effective, long-stay accommodation.
Hotels may work short-term, but for serious projects, serviced accommodation is the smarter solution.
Luke Stays is proud to support the people building the North East — offering homes that work as hard as the contractors staying in them.
Ready to Book Contractor Accommodation?
Whether you’re managing a short-term project or a long-term infrastructure build, Luke Stays can support your team with comfortable, flexible, contractor-ready accommodation.
Get in touch today to discuss availability, long-stay rates, or block bookings across the North East.