The government has made a strong start over the past year, putting construction at the centre of its mission for economic growth and making significant progress on investment and policy. Now, the focus must shift to delivery and turn promising commitments into lasting growth, both locally and nationally.

Pledges to build 1.5 million homes over five years, make substantial investment in infrastructure and reform the planning system are clear indicators of intent, while announcements such as the reinstatement of the chief construction advisor and a new national construction upskilling programme align with industry recommendations.

However, as highlighted in SCAPE’s recent A Year of Change: Public Good, Public Building report, the diverse challenges and unique priorities of regions across the UK demand a far more localised approach to how public projects are conceived, funded and delivered, ensuring that these national ambitions translate effectively on the ground.