How the UK is reshaping housing, construction, and critical infrastructure

This cluster tracks a broad reset in the UK’s construction and infrastructure landscape, from housing delivery and planning reform to power grids and transport megaprojects. Government is reshaping rules around local plans, Section 106, procurement, and a new National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority, even as councils report persistent delays and critics allege ministers are too close to major housebuilders. At the same time, major deals and projects – such as Engie’s £10.5bn purchase of UK Power Networks, Kier Group’s strong results, HS2 and Heathrow expansion, and mobile operators pushing planning reform for 5G – signal ongoing investment in critical assets. Across the sector, innovation and culture change are in focus, with AI tools showcased at UK Construction Week, new skills programmes, and growing attention to women’s experiences and leadership in construction as levers to improve performance and social outcomes, including housing-linked crime reduction.