Episodi

  • The Construction Jobs Plan | Episode 132

    The Construction Jobs Plan | Episode 132
    Sep 9 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 132 - The Construction Jobs Plan (09.09.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we're discussing new insights on salaries and workplace expectations, government plans to address workforce shortages, and bold ideas to accelerate housing delivery around train stations.High salaries but higher expectations: survey takes industry temperature on work trends and salaryA recent Construction Management survey reveals that while construction professionals are enjoying higher salaries—average earnings have risen to nearly £78,000, with over 21% earning above £100,000—expectations are also rising. Job stability remains strong, with 76% confident about future opportunities, but satisfaction is increasingly tied to more than just pay. Holiday entitlement and wellbeing benefits are highly valued, while work-life balance and personal development need improvement.The workforce remains predominantly male (87%) and older, raising concerns about succession planning. Professional membership, especially with CIOB, boosts optimism and career prospects. Recruitment experts note that career development and recognition are now as important as salary in retaining talent.Construction Salary and Market Trends Survey 2026Government to publish construction jobs plan this yearThe UK government is set to release a comprehensive construction jobs plan aimed at tackling workforce shortages. Housing minister Matthew Pennycook highlighted the sector’s ongoing pressures, particularly the loss of EU labour post-Brexit and high dropout rates from construction courses.The plan, developed with industry input, will include a £625 million skills package for boot camps, placements, and retraining. The government’s new towns programme is expected to provide a long-term pipeline for modern construction methods, helping to attract and upskill workers. Pennycook emphasized the need for certainty and sustained investment to support both traditional and factory-based construction, aiming to make the sector more appealing to young people and those not currently in education or employment.Hand Network Rail land to metro mayors to speed up housing delivery around train stations, think tank tells governmentThe Centre for Cities think tank urges the government to transfer control of Network Rail land around train stations to regional mayors to accelerate housing delivery. Their research shows that matching housing densities seen in France and Japan could reduce the UK’s housing shortage by 25%, adding over a million homes in major cities. The report argues that current low-density development and fragmented land ownership are major barriers. Fast-tracking land transfers and empowering mayoral development corporations could cut planning delays and boost regeneration.While Network Rail’s Platform4 is working to address these issues, the think tank insists that only urgent reform and stronger partnerships will unlock the full potential of these sites for housing and economic growth.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    45 min
  • Construction Supply Chain Strength | Episode 131

    Construction Supply Chain Strength | Episode 131
    Sep 2 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 131 - Construction Supply Chain Strength (02.09.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we're discussing the government’s major affordable homes funding announcement, the strengthening industrial construction pipeline, and Foster + Partners’ innovative research into robotic swarm construction systems. Let's go!Government reveals allocations for first £10bn spend from affordable homes programmeThe UK government has announced the first allocations from its £39bn Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP), with £9.6bn awarded to 33 organisations outside London. This funding aims to deliver over 73,600 homes, 60% of which will be for social rent. Notably, local authorities are named as Homes England strategic partners for the first time, marking a shift in how funding is distributed and empowering councils to build more homes directly.Key recipients include Orbit Group, Together Housing, and Vistry Homes, each receiving around £350m to deliver thousands of affordable homes. Mayoral authorities such as Greater Manchester and West Midlands will also see significant investment, with over £2bn allocated to these regions. The government is further supporting councils by allowing full use of Right to Buy receipts and investing £46m to boost building capacity. Sector leaders have welcomed the funding, highlighting its potential to reduce homelessness and increase the supply of genuinely affordable homes.Industrial construction pipeline strengthensThe UK’s industrial construction sector is experiencing robust growth, with planning approvals for industrial projects reaching £2.13bn in the three months to June—a 22% increase year-on-year. Major projects over £100m have tripled in value, particularly in the East Midlands and North East. Manufacturing leads the sector, accounting for two-thirds of new starts, including significant investments by BAE Systems in Kent and Rolls-Royce in Bristol.The food sector is also active, with Apetito UK launching a £73.75m facility in Wiltshire. Logistics and warehousing remain strong, highlighted by a £14.3bn takeover bid for Segro and upcoming projects like the £53.12m Cliffe Hill Farm redevelopment in Leicestershire. The sector is forecast to grow by 16% next year, driven by continued demand in manufacturing and logistics.Foster + Partners secures €4 million to research ‘robotic swarm’ construction systemFoster + Partners has been awarded a €4 million grant from the European Innovation Council to lead the SWIFT-BUILD project, an ambitious initiative to revolutionize timber construction using swarms of autonomous robots. Over the next three years, a consortium of leading universities and Foster + Partners will develop a system where ground-based robotic assemblers and lifting units work together to build timber structures from the top down.Drones will monitor progress and provide real-time feedback, enabling the robots to adapt and operate safely with minimal human intervention. The project aims to culminate in a full-scale demonstration of a multi-storey timber pavilion assembled autonomously. SWIFT-BUILD’s focus on modular, reversible construction and integrated AI supports sustainability and circularity, with the potential to transform how buildings are designed, constructed, and deconstructed.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    40 min
  • Bold Moves in Construction | Episode 130

    Bold Moves in Construction | Episode 130
    Aug 26 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 130 - Bold Moves in Construction (26.08.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we're discussing a surge in government confidence for major infrastructure delivery, a transformative shift in national planning policy, and a bold government commitment to end rough sleeping. Each story carries significant implications for senior leaders and decision makers across the sector. Lets go!‘Burnham Bounce’ boosts confidence in Government delivery of major infrastructure projects, new research findsNew research from the Association for Project Management reveals a marked increase in confidence among project professionals regarding the government’s ability to deliver major infrastructure projects since Andy Burnham became Prime Minister. 64% of respondents report greater confidence, with trust in government delivery rising to 95%.This renewed optimism is underpinned by visible improvements in project leadership and delivery standards, positioning infrastructure as a central driver of economic growth. However, supply chain and procurement management remain areas for further enhancement. Senior leaders should capitalise on this momentum by embedding project-centric thinking and ensuring robust resource allocation to sustain delivery performance.‘A pretty bold swing’: New NPPF ushers in an era of permissive, nationally-led planning policy but could be scuppered by viability crisisThe newly published National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) marks a decisive shift towards a more permissive, nationally-led planning regime. Key changes include a stronger presumption in favour of development, especially around well-connected transport hubs, and a reduction in the weight of inconsistent local plans.While these reforms are designed to accelerate housing and infrastructure delivery, concerns persist around scheme viability, particularly in the face of rising costs and regulatory burdens. The framework also introduces stricter requirements for accessible homes and community asset protection, but softens some density and environmental standards. The success of the NPPF will hinge on local authority cooperation and the sector’s ability to translate consents into deliverable projects amid ongoing viability challenges.UK National Planning Policy Framework for Sustainable Development PDF Space for you to explore.Govt outlines £422m plans to end rough sleeping by ChristmasPrime Minister Andy Burnham has announced a £442 million package to end rough sleeping in England by Christmas, focusing on emergency accommodation, settled homes, and wraparound support. The initiative includes over 1,000 new settled homes and prioritises areas with the greatest need.While the move is widely welcomed, experts highlight the need for integrated support services and caution that housing provision alone will not resolve systemic homelessness. The plan also calls for bringing empty homes back into use and improving design standards for temporary accommodation. For construction leaders, this represents both a social imperative and an opportunity to contribute to housing-led solutions, particularly through retrofitting and mixed-tenure development models.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.Peter's ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    42 min
  • Does Construction Have A Jesus Complex? | Episode 129

    Does Construction Have A Jesus Complex? | Episode 129
    Aug 19 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 129 - Does Construction Have A Jesus Complex? (19.08.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.Here's what we're discussing in this episode - Years of fragmented reforms have left education and training pathways confusing for young people and employers alike, with a persistent divide between academic and technical routes. As the government pushes for devolution and local empowerment, new research shows that construction labour markets are becoming more localised, making regional skills strategies more important than ever. Meanwhile, innovation is accelerating, with technologies like atmospheric water generation offering practical solutions to sustainability and resource challenges on site. Let's go!Why construction must get ahead of Burnham’s skills planThe UK’s construction skills system is widely seen as outdated and confusing, with repeated reforms failing to bridge the gap between academic and technical education. Andy Burnham’s new plan aims to elevate technical subjects in schools from age 14, linking them to local job opportunities and devolving education funding to regional authorities.Early pilots, like the Manchester Baccalaureate, have partnered with hundreds of employers to offer T-level placements in growth sectors such as construction and the green economy. However, the sector must actively engage to ensure reforms deliver real workplace readiness, valuable placements, and sufficient funding—especially for SMEs. Without industry involvement, there’s a risk of perpetuating a broken system and missing out on new talent.New report finds increasingly localised construction labour markets support the Government's agendaRecent research from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) highlights a shift: construction workers are less willing to travel long distances for work, with only 28% working more than 50 miles from home (down from 32% in 2022).This trend supports the government’s push for localised skills development and technical education pathways for young people. As workforce mobility declines, employers must invest in local training and recruitment to meet regional labour demands. The report stresses that place-based skills strategies and stronger partnerships between employers, training providers, and local authorities are essential to address emerging skills shortages and deliver on housing and infrastructure goals.Read the report: Workforce Mobility research shows that skills strategies must become more localisedTurning air into drinking water: could atmospheric water generation change construction?Atmospheric water generators (AWGs) are emerging as a practical solution for on-site drinking water, extracting moisture from the air and purifying it for consumption. Companies like Altitude Water are promoting AWGs for construction sites, reducing reliance on bottled water and temporary supplies. The technology, already used in disaster relief and remote locations, is gaining traction in the UK due to rising concerns over water security and infrastructure strain.AWGs can be integrated into new developments for direct supply to kitchens and drinking points, while solar-powered mobile units offer off-grid solutions. Although still unfamiliar to many, AWGs could soon become a standard feature on construction projects, supporting sustainability and resilience as water scarcity intensifies.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    42 min
  • Stop, Collaborate and Listen | Episode 128

    Stop, Collaborate and Listen | Episode 128
    Aug 12 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 128 - Stop, Collaborate and Listen (12.08.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we're discussing record housing starts, the urgent need for supply chain collaboration, and the visionary clients behind the UK’s most celebrated new buildings. Let's go.Housing starts hit the highest level since 2023The UK recorded 40,770 housing starts in the first quarter of 2026, the highest since the exceptional surge in Q2 2023. This marks a 14% increase over Q1 2025 and a 7.2% rise from the previous quarter, though starts remain below pre-pandemic levels. England led the way, accounting for 84.5% of all UK starts, with private enterprises responsible for most activity. Wales saw the strongest quarterly growth, while Scotland experienced a decline. Completions also rose slightly year-on-year, but remain subdued compared to historic highs. Industry experts highlight the resilience of private developers amid ongoing viability challenges and emphasise the need for balanced regulation and supportive government policy to sustain momentum in housing delivery.From adversarial to aligned - the case for change in supply chain relationships and why collaboration can’t waitDespite decades of effort, adversarial behaviours persist in construction supply chains, undermining project delivery. Only 58% of projects are delivered on time and within budget, with instability driven by poor estimating, uncontrolled scope changes, and late payments. Globally, 61% of professionals view supply chains as inherently adversarial, and UK architects report a high need for formal dispute resolution. However, 83% believe trust is critical, and 81% say collaboration resolves issues faster. Collaborative contracts offer clear benefits—improving delivery, reducing disputes, and boosting profitability—but adoption remains limited, especially in the UK. The report urges clients, particularly in the public sector, to lead the shift toward collaborative frameworks, as better relationships are essential for future project success.Download the report here: https://www.neccontract.com/insights-supply-chain or analyse the report using this PDF Space: https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/spaces/urn:aaid:sc:EU:c9dbb865-d6f8-43d0-b81a-edbb2c5d3b0dThe clients commissioning the UK's best new buildings – RIBA Client of the Year 2026 shortlist revealedThe RIBA Client of the Year 2026 shortlist honours six clients for their transformative projects:York Minster – Two contemporary buildings forming a public engagement campus at the historic cathedral.British Land for Norton Folgate – Revitalisation of derelict sites into an office-led development in Spitalfields.Sadler's Wells & London Legacy Development Corporation – A new dance theatre and choreography school at Sadler’s Wells East.Redruth Revival CIC for The Buttermarket – Conversion of a historic market into a vibrant, accessible community hub in Cornwall.Brighton College – The Richard Cairns Building, a mixed-use performing arts and teaching facility.Natural History Museum, London – The Urban Nature Project, transforming the museum’s gardens into a living exhibition.These clients exemplify ambition and vision, delivering architecture that benefits users, communities, and visitors. The winner will be announced at the Stirling Prize ceremony on 15 October 2026.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    39 min
  • Reforming Construction | Episode 127

    Reforming Construction | Episode 127
    Aug 5 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 127 - Reforming Construction (05.08.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we're discussing industry confidence, the future of technical education, and the complexities of reforming construction professions. Let's go!Construction confidence jumps to highest level this yearConstruction firms in the UK are experiencing a surge in optimism, with sector confidence reaching its highest point in over a year. According to the latest Lloyds Business Barometer, confidence jumped 10 points to 56%, well above the 12-month average. Key drivers include stronger customer demand and improved financial conditions, with 65% of firms planning to hire more staff.Optimism about the wider economy is also on the rise, supported by steady interest rates and lower global energy prices. This renewed confidence signals a shift from short-term survival to long-term planning and investment in people and capacity.ICE: Why we need to build technical education to lastSteve Feeley from the Institution of Civil Engineers highlights the cultural shift needed in technical education. He argues that success should not be measured solely by academic routes but by diverse pathways, including apprenticeships and vocational training. The goal is to create a system where all routes - academic and technical - are valued equally, enabling more young people to see themselves in engineering and infrastructure careers.Feeley calls for policymakers to listen to educators, employers, and students, build cross-party consensus, and ensure reforms are practical for schools. The focus should be on connecting existing pathways and supporting teachers, rather than imposing rapid, unsupported changes.Paul Morrell: The problem with reforming construction professions is knowing where to startPaul Morrell, former chief construction adviser, examines the daunting task of reforming construction professions. He notes the complexity of the sector, with numerous stakeholders and overlapping competencies. Morrell warns against creating a "Christmas tree" of regulations and stresses the need for government clarity on its role, whether as sponsor, client, or regulator.He suggests that reforms must be focused, enforceable, and proportionate, with clear standards of competence and accountability. Morrell also emphasizes that government should lead by example, ensuring its own procurement and regulatory practices reflect the standards it expects from the industry.Call for Evidence: Strategy for the built environment professions, trades and occupationsBiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    43 min
  • Shuffling Cabinets | Episode 126

    Shuffling Cabinets | Episode 126
    Jul 29 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 126 - Shuffling Cabinets (29.07.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we're discussing key cabinet appointments, regulatory changes in building safety, and the rapid rise of AI in architecture, each with major implications for the UK construction industry. Let's goAndy Burnham’s cabinet: Faces the construction industry should knowThe new UK cabinet under Prime Minister Andy Burnham introduces several important figures for the construction sector. John Healey, now Chancellor of the Exchequer, is expected to play a major role in funding and investment decisions. Angela Rayner returns as Housing Secretary, bringing experience from her previous tenure, where she led significant housing reforms and prioritised affordable and social housing.Miatta Fahnbulleh, the new Energy Secretary, is known for her expertise in energy efficiency and net zero policy, and her background as an economist and policy developer signals a continued focus on sustainable energy projects. Other notable appointments include Matthew Pennycook as Housing Minister, Wes Streeting as Defence Secretary, and Kanishka Narayan as Minister for AI. Industry leaders have welcomed these appointments, emphasising the importance of strong leadership for housing delivery, planning reform, and energy efficiency.BSR puts main contractors on notice over subcontractor qualityThe Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is increasing its scrutiny of how main contractors manage subcontractors on high-risk projects. The regulator expects main contractors to have experienced staff who can assess and challenge subcontractor workmanship, ensuring that on-site work matches approved designs. Regular inspections will be conducted to verify compliance from the design approval stage (gateway two) through to project completion (gateway three).This heightened oversight is a response to past failures, such as those seen in the Grenfell Tower tragedy, which highlighted the dangers of poor subcontractor management. Gateway two approval rates have improved significantly, rising to around 85%, and determination times have dropped, but the final success of projects depends on effective quality control throughout the supply chain.AI adoption reaches tipping point across UK architecture – but human judgement remains criticalAI is rapidly transforming UK architecture, with 74% of practices now using AI for most projects, up from 59% last year. Many practices report productivity gains and positive returns on investment, but there are concerns about the impact on early-career professionals, as 61% believe AI makes it harder for them to gain essential skills.Despite the widespread adoption, only a minority think AI improves design quality, and the majority believe that human creativity and judgement remain irreplaceable. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) stresses the need for competence-led regulation and responsible AI use, ensuring that critical decisions remain in the hands of qualified professionals. The profession recognises the benefits of AI but maintains that human oversight is essential for high-quality, safe, and sustainable design.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    36 min
  • Build it and they will come, but won't stay | Episode 125

    Build it and they will come, but won't stay | Episode 125
    Jul 22 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 125 - Build it and they will come, but won't stay (22.07.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we're discussing government intervention in housebuilding, the real challenge of retaining talent, and how data-driven innovation is transforming development and community trust. Let's go!State housebuilder could support sector through troughs, minister saysHousing secretary Steve Reed has revealed that the UK government is considering the creation of a state-owned housebuilder. This initiative aims to support the construction sector during market downturns, maintaining activity and preserving skills, investment, and delivery capacity when private demand weakens.Reed emphasised that while private housebuilders would still deliver most homes, a state-backed developer could help smooth out the effects of deep market troughs, preventing the loss of skilled workers and ensuring a faster recovery. The proposal is in early stages, with officials examining potential models and the broader implications for regional devolution and council housebuilding.Attracting talent isn’t the problem… keeping it isThe construction industry has made progress in attracting young talent, but retention remains a significant challenge. Many new entrants leave within their first year, resulting in the loss of future leaders and specialists. The article highlights the importance of structured onboarding, mentorship, and exposure to various roles to help new recruits find their place and purpose.Companies like Legendre UK have seen success with sustained investment in training and rotating young employees through different departments. The sector must also improve its image, showcase its impact, and create inclusive environments to appeal to a diverse workforce. Ultimately, recruitment should be the start of a conversation about long-term career growth and support.Fabian Society - Building Skills ReportData can open doors to new developmentReal-time data monitoring is revolutionising the built environment by increasing efficiency, enabling proactive decision-making, and building public trust. Technologies like Stantec’s ADAhub platform integrate live data from sensors monitoring noise, air quality, and vibration, helping teams address issues early and comply with regulations.Transparent data sharing can reduce community opposition to new developments by demonstrating efforts to minimise disruption and environmental impact. Case studies in Birmingham, Stockport, and Wrexham show how data-driven approaches have improved air quality and fostered positive relationships with local communities. Embracing smart technology and environmental monitoring is key to creating sustainable, trusted, and community-focused developments.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    40 min