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3D printed concrete in UK infrastructure and construction

3D printed concrete is rapidly moving from experimental technology to a practical solution for the UK construction and infrastructure sectors. As the industry faces mounting pressure to improve productivity, reduce carbon emissions and address labour shortages, additive manufacturing is emerging as a viable method for delivering buildings and infrastructure components faster and more efficiently.

The technology, often referred to as 3D concrete printing (3DCP), uses robotic systems to deposit layers of concrete according to a digital design. Unlike traditional construction methods, which rely heavily on formwork, 3D printing creates structures directly from computer models, reducing material waste and enabling complex geometries that would otherwise be costly or impossible to achieve.

3D printed concrete in UK infrastructure and construction — Image: Costain

The UK’s interest in 3D printed concrete has accelerated significantly over the past five years. Early adoption was largely focused on housing and demonstration projects, but the technology is now finding applications across infrastructure, utilities and civil engineering. One of the most notable developments came in 2026 when Costain deployed 3D printed concrete components on a major carbon capture project on Teesside. Working alongside A E Yates and Hyperion Robotics, the company used 90 low-carbon printed concrete pipe supports for a CO₂ pipeline within the East Coast Cluster network. According to project data, the printed components reduced concrete and steel consumption by 40 per cent and cut embodied carbon by up to 50 per cent compared with conventional precast alternatives.

The appeal of 3D printed concrete lies in its potential to address several longstanding challenges in construction. Industry suppliers report that automated printing can reduce project costs by around 30 per cent, accelerate delivery times by as much as 50 per cent and significantly reduce material waste. By placing concrete only where it is structurally required, the process supports both efficiency and sustainability objectives.

Housing remains one of the most promising applications. Harcourt Technologies (HTL), the exclusive distributor of COBOD’s 3D construction printing technology in the UK and Ireland, has been actively promoting the technology for affordable housing developments. The company states that 3D concrete printing can help facilitate “the rapid delivery of high-quality, affordable, and sustainable housing reliably and consistently.”

Industry collaboration has also played a crucial role in advancing the technology. Major materials suppliers have invested in developing printable concrete mixes that use conventional ready-mix materials rather than specialist mortars. CEMEX and COBOD jointly developed a system that enables standard concrete to be used in 3D printing applications, reducing costs and improving scalability. According to the companies, the innovation allows contractors to utilise locally sourced materials while achieving significant time savings compared with traditional methods.

Despite the progress, challenges remain before 3D printed concrete becomes mainstream across the UK. Regulatory compliance, quality assurance and structural standards continue to evolve. The construction industry is traditionally cautious about adopting new methods, particularly where long-term performance and safety are concerned. However, efforts to develop standardised approaches are helping to overcome these barriers. Harcourt Technologies, working with engineering consultancy Cundall, has been involved in projects aimed at establishing standards and protocols for 3D construction printing across Ireland and the UK.

Labour shortages are another factor driving interest. The UK construction sector faces a growing skills gap, particularly in trades associated with traditional building methods. Automated concrete printing can reduce the amount of manual labour required on site while improving consistency and productivity. Rather than replacing workers entirely, the technology is expected to shift demand towards digital design, robotics operation and advanced manufacturing skills.

Infrastructure applications may ultimately prove more transformative than housing. Printed concrete components such as pipe supports, retaining structures, foundations and utility assets can be manufactured off-site and delivered ready for installation. This approach aligns closely with the industry’s broader move towards modern methods of construction and off-site manufacturing. The success of recent infrastructure projects suggests that 3D printed concrete could become a valuable tool for delivering low-carbon assets while reducing programme times and site disruption.

Looking ahead, the outlook for 3D printed concrete in the UK is increasingly positive. As standards mature, equipment becomes more widely available and contractors gain confidence through real-world projects, adoption is likely to expand. While the technology will not replace conventional construction entirely, it is becoming an important addition to the industry’s toolkit.

For a sector under pressure to build more sustainably, more quickly and with fewer resources, 3D printed concrete represents one of the most significant construction innovations of the past decade. The transition from pilot projects to operational infrastructure schemes indicates that the technology is no longer a future concept but an emerging reality within the UK’s built environment.

Civil Engineering Construction Nationwide Sureties News

UKGBC launches Whole Life Carbon Framework

The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) has launched its new Whole Life Carbon Framework (WLCF), marking a significant evolution of the organisation’s landmark Net Zero Carbon Framework Definition first introduced in 2019.

The updated framework has been designed to help the built environment sector reduce carbon emissions across the entire lifecycle of buildings, from design and construction through to operation, refurbishment and end-of-life.

The WLCF arrives at a critical moment for the construction and property industries as pressure intensifies to decarbonise the UK’s built environment. UKGBC has previously warned that the sector is “dangerously behind” in meeting national carbon reduction targets, with embodied carbon emissions continuing to rise despite broader net zero commitments.

UKGBC launches WLCF — Image by Toby Parsons from Pixabay

The original Net Zero Carbon Framework Definition, launched in 2019, was developed to create a common industry understanding of what constitutes a net zero carbon building. Since then, the market has matured significantly, with the introduction of initiatives such as the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and growing adoption of whole-life carbon assessments across major developments.

According to UKGBC, the new framework builds on that earlier guidance by moving beyond high-level definitions and focusing on practical implementation. The WLCF establishes a set of principles and actions aimed at minimising whole-life carbon and managing residual emissions throughout a building’s lifecycle.

The framework introduces four overarching principles centred on adaptability, accountability, target-setting and transparent disclosure. It also provides lifecycle-stage actions intended to support project teams in making low-carbon decisions from the earliest stages of design through to operation and eventual deconstruction.

Yetunde Abdul, director of industry transformation at UKGBC, said: “As expectations around sustainability and carbon performance continue to grow, organisations need practical tools that support consistent and informed decision-making across the full life cycle of buildings.

“This updated framework is designed to help drive industry-wide action by supporting better design making, strengthening accountability and embedding whole-life carbon thinking into projects from the outset.”

Philippa Birch-Wood, head of climate action at UKGBC, said: “Designed to complement initiatives such as the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard, the framework will help organisations improve assessment, reporting and disclosure practices while supporting the transition to net-zero aligned buildings.”

Industry leaders have increasingly recognised whole-life carbon measurement as essential to achieving net zero goals, particularly as operational emissions begin to fall through improved energy efficiency and cleaner electricity generation.

The UKGBC’s latest Whole Life Carbon Roadmap Progress Report found that embodied carbon remains one of the sector’s biggest challenges. The report stated that emissions from buildings and infrastructure have fallen by just 14% since 2018, compared with the 24% reduction required to remain on track for the UK’s climate goals.

Simon McWhirter, chief executive of UKGBC, previously warned that the industry cannot afford to “lock in another generation of high-carbon homes, offices and infrastructure.”

The launch of the WLCF also reflects wider industry momentum around carbon reporting and lifecycle assessment. Organisations including the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) have both strengthened guidance around embodied carbon, lifecycle analysis and environmental product declarations in recent years.

UKGBC said the framework is intended to work alongside existing standards rather than replace them. The organisation believes the WLCF will support developers, contractors, consultants, local authorities and product manufacturers in embedding whole-life carbon thinking into mainstream project delivery.

The framework also aligns with UKGBC’s broader Net Zero Whole Life Carbon Roadmap, launched in 2021, which sets out the built environment sector’s pathway to net zero emissions by 2050. That roadmap was developed with contributions from more than 100 organisations across the construction and property sectors.

As regulatory scrutiny and investor expectations continue to rise, industry observers expect whole-life carbon measurement and disclosure to become increasingly central to planning, procurement and asset management decisions.

For UKGBC, the new framework represents an attempt to provide the market with a more practical and consistent approach to reducing carbon emissions across the built environment at scale.

Apprenticeship Construction Nationwide Sureties

Construction apprenticeships rise by 1.5% – but skills gap still looms

The UK construction sector has recorded its first increase in apprenticeship starts since 2021/22, according to new analysis from Protrade. While the 1.5% rise in new construction apprenticeships for 2024/25 offers some encouragement, the data also exposes ongoing weaknesses in the industry’s skills pipeline.

Protrade’s latest “State of Construction Apprenticeships in 2026” report found that 24,590 new apprentices entered the sector during 2024/25, compared with 24,230 the previous year. The increase reverses two consecutive years of decline and suggests the market may finally be stabilising after the post-pandemic slowdown.

Construction apprenticeships rise by 1.5% – but skills gap still looms — https://depositphotos.com/portfolio-1037987.html?content=photo

However, the figures remain significantly below what the industry actually needs. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates that around 48,000 new workers are required every year to help meet housing and infrastructure targets. Current apprenticeship numbers are therefore only delivering around half of the annual workforce demand.

One of the report’s most positive findings is the continued growth in diversity across the construction workforce. Female apprenticeship uptake reached a record high in 2024/25, with 2,630 women beginning construction apprenticeships – a 9% increase on the previous year. Women now account for 10.7% of all new construction apprentices, up from 10% in 2023/24.

The rise in female participation is particularly significant for an industry that has historically struggled with gender imbalance. It also highlights changing perceptions around careers in construction, with more women considering skilled trades and technical roles as viable long-term careers.

Protrade’s analysis noted that recent growth in apprenticeship numbers is being driven “largely by improved female participation rather than broader sector growth.”

There was also strong progress in ethnic diversity. Apprenticeships taken up by people from ethnic minority backgrounds rose by 18% year-on-year to 2,270 starters, almost double the level recorded in 2018/19.

Regionally, the picture was mixed. The North West remained the UK’s strongest region for apprenticeship starts with 4,240 new entrants, while the East Midlands recorded the fastest growth rate at 8%. London, despite a modest increase, continued to rank lowest overall for apprenticeship numbers.

Despite the encouraging headlines, several underlying concerns remain. Recruitment among traditional younger age groups continues to stagnate, with apprenticeship starts among 16 and 17-year-olds either flat or declining. This is worrying for an industry already facing an ageing workforce and long-term labour shortages.

The report also highlighted the challenges faced by SMEs, which form the backbone of the UK construction industry. Many smaller firms still struggle with the cost, administration and training requirements associated with taking on apprentices.

Craig Sanders, joint managing director at Protrade, said the industry must do more to support SMEs and improve engagement with younger people entering the workforce. He argued that simplifying apprenticeship processes and increasing incentives for employers would help boost uptake across the sector.

Sanders also believes construction needs to better promote itself as a future-focused and environmentally driven industry. He said: “Positioning construction apprenticeships as a route into climate-positive, future-proof careers” could help attract more school leavers into the sector.

This is particularly relevant as the government’s net-zero ambitions increase demand for green construction skills, including retrofit, insulation and heat pump installation. Yet many young people still fail to associate construction with sustainability and innovation.

The latest figures therefore present a mixed picture for the industry. On one hand, the growth in female and diverse entrants demonstrates that efforts to widen access and modernise perceptions of construction are beginning to deliver results. On the other, the overall increase remains modest and far below the level needed to address the sector’s growing skills shortage.

Ultimately, the 1.5% rise may mark the beginning of a recovery, but it is not yet evidence of a fully functioning apprenticeship pipeline. Without greater support for employers, stronger engagement with younger workers and a more coordinated long-term strategy, the construction industry risks falling short of the workforce required to meet the UK’s ambitious housing and infrastructure goals.

Construction Nationwide Sureties News

How the Iran Conflict could ‘paralyse’ the construction industry

The ongoing Iran conflict is sending shockwaves far beyond geopolitics, with mounting evidence that the global construction sector could face severe disruption. According to Pick Everard’s Market Intelligence Report 2025, escalating instability in the Middle East is already influencing supply chain, costs, and investor confidence. If these pressures continue unchecked, the report warns, the construction industry risks becoming effectively “paralysed”.

At the heart of the issue lies the globalised nature of construction. Modern projects depend heavily on international supply chains for materials such as steel, cement, glass, and mechanical components. The Iran conflict threatens key shipping routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supplies. Any disruption here has a cascading effect on oil and gas prices, which in turn drives up manufacturing, transportation, and operational costs across construction projects worldwide.

Energy prices are a particularly acute concern. Construction is an energy-intensive sector, from material production to on-site operations. Rising fuel costs increase the price of raw materials while simultaneously inflating logistics expenses. This double impact places enormous strain on project budgets, many of which are already finely balanced. As a result, developers may delay or cancel projects, leading to reduced activity across the industry.

The Pick Everard report highlights that uncertainty is proving just as damaging as actual disruption. Investors and developers are increasingly hesitant to commit to new projects in such a volatile environment. This “watch and wait” approach is slowing decision-making and stalling pipelines, creating a bottleneck that could significantly hinder growth.

Gavin Mason, Operations Director at Pick Everard, emphasises that inaction poses a major risk. He said that sitting tight is not an option and urged construction companies to adopt a proactive risk-management approach.

“It’s not a lack of intent that is the issue now,” he said, “but a ‘watch and wait’ mentality that is threatening growth.

“The problem is that the shockwaves from the Iran war are likely to be felt by construction for some time – regardless of how peace talks play out. In these volatile times, we need to collaborate and foster agility through strategies like advanced procurement and data sharing.”

This perspective reflects a broader industry concern: that hesitation could compound the challenges already facing construction. Labour shortages, inflation, and regulatory pressures were already testing resilience before geopolitical tensions intensified. The Iran conflict adds another layer of complexity, increasing the likelihood of project delays, cost overruns, and contractual disputes.

Supply chain fragility is another critical factor. Many construction firms rely on just-in-time delivery models to manage costs and efficiency. However, geopolitical instability exposes the vulnerability of this approach. Delays at ports, sanctions, or restricted trade routes can quickly disrupt schedules. The report suggests that companies may need to rethink procurement strategies, including diversifying suppliers and holding greater stock reserves, even if this increases short-term costs.

Insurance and risk premiums are also rising. Projects in regions perceived as high-risk may face higher financing costs or difficulty securing investment altogether. This tightening of financial conditions could further restrict the flow of capital into construction, particularly for large-scale infrastructure and commercial developments.

Despite these challenges, the report underscores that the industry is not without options. Proactive risk management is a recurring theme, with an emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and data-driven decision-making. Advanced procurement strategies, for example, can help firms secure materials earlier and at more stable prices. Meanwhile, improved data sharing across the supply chain can enhance visibility and allow companies to respond more quickly to disruptions.

Digital tools and predictive analytics are also gaining importance. By modelling different scenarios, firms can better anticipate risks and plan contingencies. This shift towards a more agile and responsive operating model could help mitigate the worst effects of geopolitical instability.

However, adopting these strategies requires a cultural shift within the industry. The traditional reactive approach—waiting for clarity before acting—is no longer sufficient in a world characterised by constant uncertainty. Instead, companies must embrace a mindset of continuous adaptation, where risk is actively managed rather than passively endured.

The potential for paralysis arises when uncertainty, rising costs, and delayed decision-making converge. If too many stakeholders adopt a cautious stance simultaneously, the entire ecosystem slows down. Projects are postponed, supply chains contract, and confidence erodes. In such a scenario, even firms that are willing to proceed may find themselves constrained by external factors beyond their control.

Ultimately, the Iran conflict serves as a stark reminder of how interconnected the construction industry is with global events. While the immediate impacts are being felt through costs and supply chains, the longer-term consequences could reshape how the sector operates. Companies that act decisively, invest in resilience, and embrace collaboration are more likely to navigate the turbulence successfully.

Those that do not, risk being caught in a cycle of hesitation and delay—one that could indeed leave the industry “paralysed” at a time when infrastructure development and economic growth are more critical than ever.

Construction Health and Safety Nationwide Sureties

Ling Developments Limited fined by HSE for repeated safety breaches

Ling Developments Limited has been fined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after a sustained pattern of safety failings across multiple construction sites, highlighting serious shortcomings in the company’s approach to worker welfare and regulatory compliance. The case underscores the increasing willingness of regulators to take decisive enforcement action where repeated breaches occur.

Background to the prosecution

The Wolverhampton-based construction firm was investigated following an HSE inspection in April 2024 at its site in Telford. Inspectors identified fundamental failures in welfare provision, including the absence of hot or warm running water in toilet facilities and a lack of suitable rest areas for workers.

These deficiencies are not minor administrative oversights but breaches of core legal requirements under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, which mandate that employers provide adequate washing facilities, rest areas, and provisions for workers to eat meals safely.

As a result of the inspection, HSE issued two improvement notices, legally requiring Ling Developments Limited to bring the site up to standard.

A pattern of repeated non-compliance

Crucially, the Telford inspection was not an isolated incident. Investigators found that Ling Developments Limited had breached the same regulations on three previous occasions at other sites, demonstrating a persistent failure to address known risks.

Despite earlier enforcement action and direct guidance from HSE inspectors, the company continued to provide substandard welfare facilities across four separate construction locations. This pattern of non-compliance was central to the prosecution and ultimately influenced the severity of the penalty.

The HSE concluded that the repeated breaches indicated a systemic issue within the organisation, rather than isolated lapses in site management.

Court outcome and penalties

Ling Developments Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 13(4)(c) of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015. The case was heard at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on 13 April 2026.

The company was fined £15,858 and ordered to pay an additional £3,858 in costs.

While the financial penalty may appear modest compared to larger corporate prosecutions, the case carries significant reputational implications, particularly given the repeated nature of the offences.

HSE response and key quotes

HSE inspector Natalie Spurrier delivered a clear message regarding the importance of basic welfare standards on construction sites. She stated: “The provision of suitable welfare facilities… are the minimum all workers should expect – they aren’t a luxury.”

She further emphasised the risks posed by non-compliance: “Failing to comply with legal obligations… places workers at unnecessary risk.”

The regulator’s comments reflect a broader enforcement stance that views welfare provision as a fundamental component of site safety, not an optional extra.

Analysis: why this case matters

This prosecution highlights several important themes within UK construction safety enforcement. First, it reinforces that basic welfare provisions—such as access to clean water and rest facilities—are treated as essential legal requirements. Failure to meet these standards can trigger enforcement action even in the absence of a major incident.

Second, the case demonstrates that repeat offenders face heightened scrutiny. The fact that Ling Developments Limited had previously breached the same regulations significantly strengthened the HSE’s case and illustrates how regulators track and respond to patterns of behaviour over time.

Third, it signals a continued focus by the HSE on holding principal contractors accountable. Under current legislation, responsibility for welfare standards cannot be delegated; contractors must ensure compliance across all sites they control.

Wider implications for the construction sector

For the wider construction industry, this case serves as a cautionary example. Companies operating across multiple sites must ensure consistent compliance, as failures in one location can contribute to enforcement action across the business as a whole.

It also highlights the importance of responding promptly to improvement notices. Ignoring or inadequately addressing regulatory warnings can escalate enforcement from advisory action to prosecution.

Ultimately, the Ling Developments case reinforces a clear regulatory message: repeated neglect of worker welfare will not be tolerated, and organisations that fail to meet their legal obligations risk both financial penalties and reputational damage.

Construction Developers Government Policy Nationwide Sureties

Homes England and Richborough debt facility

The recent agreement between Homes England and Richborough for a multi-million-pound debt facility marks a significant intervention in England’s housing market. Positioned as one of the first deals under the newly created National Housing Bank, the partnership reflects a strategic shift towards tackling structural barriers in housing delivery—particularly the shortage of “consented land”.

This article explores the rationale behind the decision, the mechanisms involved, and the broader implications for housing supply, planning, and investment.

A Strategic Funding Intervention

The debt facility is designed as a flexible, long-term financing arrangement that enables Richborough to invest earlier and more extensively in land acquisition and planning applications. Unlike traditional development finance, this model focuses on the pre-construction phase—arguably the most constrained part of the housing pipeline.

Homes England has confirmed that the funding will support continued investment in new sites and accelerate planning activity across England, ultimately increasing the availability of land with planning permission.

Richborough’s role as a land promoter is central to this strategy. The company identifies land, secures planning permission at its own risk, and then sells “oven-ready” sites to housebuilders. By backing this stage of the process, Homes England is targeting a critical bottleneck in housing delivery.

Addressing the Planning System Bottleneck

One of the primary drivers behind the agreement is the growing inefficiency of the planning system. Decision times for major applications are now reportedly three times longer than they were a decade ago, creating delays that ripple across the entire development pipeline. (GOV.UK)

This slowdown has shifted the nature of the housing crisis. While access to development finance remains important, the more pressing issue is the limited flow of consented land. Without planning approvals, even well-capitalised developers cannot build.

By providing long-term capital, the debt facility enables Richborough to sustain momentum through extended planning timelines. This reduces the risk of stalled projects and ensures a steadier pipeline of sites ready for construction.

Scaling Up Housing Delivery

A key objective of the deal is to accelerate housing output in line with the government’s target of delivering 1.5 million homes during the current parliament.

The scale of ambition is substantial. The partnership is expected to help bring forward land capable of supporting more than 26,000 homes by 2030, with a projected gross development value exceeding £8 billion.

In the shorter term, Richborough plans to submit over 30 planning applications in 2026 alone, covering approximately 12,500 homes. This represents a significant increase in activity and highlights how access to capital can directly influence planning throughput.

The Role of the National Housing Bank

The agreement also serves as a test case for the National Housing Bank, a new government-backed vehicle aimed at unlocking housing and regeneration projects that the private market struggles to deliver independently.

Operating within Homes England, the Bank provides flexible financing across a range of structures, including debt, equity, and guarantees. Its purpose is not merely to inject capital, but to crowd in private investment and de-risk complex or long-term projects.

The Richborough deal illustrates this approach in practice. By supporting a land promoter rather than a housebuilder, the Bank is intervening earlier in the development lifecycle—where risks are higher but potential impact is significant.

Supporting the Wider Housing Ecosystem

Another important dimension of the agreement is its indirect impact on the broader housing sector. By increasing the supply of consented land, the facility benefits a wide range of stakeholders, including major housebuilders, housing associations, and small and medium-sized developers.

This is particularly relevant for SMEs, which often lack the resources to navigate complex planning processes independently. A larger pool of ready-to-develop sites lowers barriers to entry and promotes competition within the market.

Furthermore, the approach aligns with a “placemaking” agenda, ensuring that new developments are planned comprehensively before construction begins. This can lead to better-designed communities and more sustainable outcomes.

Economic and Market Implications

From an economic perspective, the deal reflects a growing recognition that housing supply constraints are as much about process as they are about funding. While increasing capital availability is important, it must be targeted effectively to address systemic inefficiencies.

The focus on land promotion suggests a shift towards upstream interventions—supporting the earliest stages of development to unlock downstream activity. If successful, this model could be replicated across other partnerships and regions.

However, the impact will not be immediate. As industry observers note, there remains a significant lag between planning approval and completed homes entering the market. This means that while the agreement may strengthen the pipeline, it will take time before it translates into increased housing supply on the ground.

A Long-Term Solution to a Structural Problem

Ultimately, the Homes England–Richborough debt facility is a strategic response to a structural issue within the UK housing system. By addressing the shortage of consented land and mitigating planning delays, the partnership aims to unlock a more consistent and scalable delivery model.

The decision reflects a broader policy shift towards proactive, government-backed investment mechanisms that work alongside the private sector. Rather than relying solely on market forces, initiatives like the National Housing Bank seek to intervene where barriers are greatest and impact is highest.

If the model proves effective, it could play a crucial role in reshaping how housing is financed and delivered in England—moving the sector closer to meeting long-term demand.

Developers Government Policy House Building Nationwide Sureties News

Stalled housing and employment sites to be unlocked

Thousands of new homes and jobs could be unlocked across England following the launch of a £165 million infrastructure fund aimed at removing barriers to stalled development sites. The UK Government’s new Growth and Housing Accelerator Fund will focus on delivering critical transport improvements needed to bring forward housing and employment projects that have struggled to progress due to funding constraints.

Set to launch in the coming weeks, the fund forms part of the wider Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3), a £27 billion plan to upgrade and maintain England’s motorways and major A-roads between 2026 and 2031. The initiative supports the Government’s broader ambition to deliver 1.5 million new homes during this Parliament while boosting economic growth and raising living standards.

The Growth and Housing Accelerator Fund is designed to bridge funding gaps for essential transport infrastructure, particularly at sites located on or near key strategic roads. By improving connectivity, the programme aims to unlock developments that have been delayed due to insufficient road access or capacity, enabling construction to begin and communities to benefit from new homes, jobs and local investment.

Secretary of State Heidi Alexander, said: “Too many housing and employment opportunities have stalled for years, held back by the infrastructure that wasn’t there to support them. This fund will pave the way for developments that have sat idle for too long, funding the transport links that stalled sites need to get moving and generating new jobs and opportunities for communities that deserve them. It is a deliberate choice – and a signal that this Government is serious about removing the barriers to growth.”

Housing Secretary Steve Reed, added: “For many people, the dream of a decent home, close to work, and with good connections to their community, has been out of reach. This government is firing on all cylinders to get spades in the ground faster so we can build new homes, bolster our transport links and create jobs in the places most in need. This is exactly the kind of targeted, practical action that will help us reach 1.5 million new homes and create thriving communities where people can put down roots.”

Delivery of the programme will be led by National Highways, which will invite local authorities to submit development sites for consideration. A rolling programme of funded schemes is expected to be published from the end of the 2026/27 financial year, providing long-term visibility for infrastructure investment and development planning.

National Highways Executive Director Elliot Shaw emphasised the importance of reliable road networks: “Reliable roads are crucial to housing developments. They shape where people want to live, where businesses want to invest, and where communities can thrive. This fund will help unlock the transport links needed for new homes and jobs and help the government achieve its ambitions on economic growth.”

At the core of RIS3 is a record £8.4 billion investment in renewing and resurfacing more than 9,000 kilometres of motorway and major A-road lanes. This will address a long-standing backlog of ageing infrastructure, including bridges, viaducts and concrete road surfaces. With around two-thirds of structures on the network now over 45 years old, the funding aims to extend asset life and improve safety and reliability.

The overall RIS3 programme is expected to support around 50,000 jobs across England over the five-year investment period, further reinforcing its role in driving economic activity alongside housing delivery.

By targeting infrastructure constraints that have historically delayed development, the Growth and Housing Accelerator Fund represents a strategic effort to align transport investment with housing and economic priorities. If successful, it could accelerate the delivery of new homes, unlock employment opportunities and help create more connected, sustainable communities across the country.

Developers Government Policy Green Belt Nationwide Sureties

CPRE response to the Government’s Land Use Framework

The publication of the Government’s long-awaited Land Use Framework marks a significant moment in shaping how England balances competing demands on land, including housing, food production, energy and nature recovery. However, the response from Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) highlights deep concerns that the framework, while welcome in principle, may fall short of delivering meaningful change.

Context: A Framework for Competing Land Demands

The Government’s Land Use Framework aims to provide strategic guidance on how land in England should be used to meet climate targets, support biodiversity and accommodate development pressures. It reflects growing urgency around climate change, food security and access to green space, with ministers emphasising the need to make “the right decisions about our finite land.”

Yet, crucially, the framework is advisory rather than mandatory, intended to “steer” decision-making rather than impose binding rules on landowners or developers. This distinction is central to CPRE’s critique.

CPRE’s Core Criticism: Lack of Clear Direction

Ahead of the framework’s release, CPRE warned that it “will not solve the fundamental question” of how land should be prioritised across England. Their analysis suggests that without stronger direction, the framework risks becoming another high-level strategy that fails to address systemic issues in land use.

At the heart of CPRE’s response is concern over the absence of a clear spatial plan. The organisation argues that England needs a more explicit, map-based approach to determine where housing, nature recovery, farming and renewable energy should take precedence. Without this, competing interests may continue to be resolved inconsistently at local level.

CPRE’s position reflects its long-standing mission to protect rural landscapes from unplanned development while promoting sustainable land use.

The Brownfield-First Argument

A key pillar of CPRE’s response is its continued advocacy for a “brownfield-first” approach to development. Drawing on its own research, the charity has repeatedly highlighted that there is sufficient previously developed land to meet housing targets without encroaching on the countryside.

This argument is reinforced by earlier CPRE findings that over 1.4 million homes could be built on brownfield sites, reducing pressure on greenfield and Green Belt land.

Chief Executive Roger Mortlock has previously criticised current policy direction, stating that if government is serious about protecting the countryside, it “needs more teeth.” Although this comment predates the framework, it encapsulates CPRE’s broader stance: that guidance alone is insufficient without enforceable mechanisms.

Concerns Over the Countryside and Green Belt

CPRE has also raised concerns that the Land Use Framework does not adequately safeguard the countryside, particularly in the context of ongoing planning reforms and pressure to release Green Belt land.

The charity has been critical of policies such as the so-called “grey belt”, which it argues could lead to development on previously undeveloped land under the guise of low environmental value.

For CPRE, the framework should have provided stronger protections for rural areas while clearly prioritising land for nature recovery and sustainable farming. Instead, the absence of binding commitments risks continued incremental loss of countryside to housing and infrastructure.

Integration and Joined-Up Policy Making

Another major theme in CPRE’s response is the need for better integration across policy areas. Land use decisions intersect with agriculture, planning, climate policy and transport, yet these are often handled in silos.

CPRE has emphasised the importance of “integrating land use decision-making across sectors and scales”, arguing that tools already exist but are not being fully utilised.

The Land Use Framework is seen as an opportunity to bring these strands together, but CPRE suggests it does not go far enough in creating a truly joined-up system.

Balancing Climate, Nature and Food Security

While critical, CPRE acknowledges the scale of the challenge facing policymakers. The need to balance net zero targets, biodiversity restoration and food production is complex, particularly given finite land resources.

The Government estimates that only around 1% of land will be needed for renewable energy infrastructure, with potential for dual use such as grazing alongside solar or wind installations.

CPRE broadly supports the principle of multifunctional land use but stresses that without clear prioritisation, there is a risk that short-term economic pressures—particularly housing demand—will dominate decision-making.

A Missed Opportunity?

Overall, CPRE’s response frames the Land Use Framework as a step in the right direction but ultimately a missed opportunity for transformative change.

The organisation welcomes the recognition of land as a finite and strategic resource, as well as the focus on climate resilience and nature-based solutions. However, it argues that the framework lacks the clarity, authority and enforceability required to address England’s land use crisis.

By failing to provide a definitive plan for where development should and should not occur, the framework may leave local authorities and developers navigating the same tensions that have long characterised the planning system.

Conclusion

The CPRE response to the Government’s Land Use Framework underscores a fundamental tension in English land policy: the gap between ambition and implementation. While the framework sets out an important vision for balancing environmental and economic priorities, CPRE’s critique highlights the need for stronger direction, clearer spatial planning and enforceable policies.

As pressures on land continue to intensify, the success of the framework will likely depend on whether it evolves from a guiding document into a more robust system capable of delivering meaningful change for the countryside, communities and the environment.

Government Policy Nationwide Sureties News

Draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill

The UK government has unveiled sweeping proposals to overhaul the long-standing leasehold system through the draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill. The legislation introduces a £250 annual cap on ground rents, proposes banning new leasehold flats, and seeks to revive the commonhold model of property ownership. The reforms represent one of the most significant changes to property law in England and Wales in decades and are intended to address longstanding criticism that the leasehold system unfairly disadvantages homeowners.

Key proposals in the draft bill

The draft legislation, published in January 2026, forms part of a broader government programme to reform property ownership. One of the central measures is a cap on ground rents of £250 per year for existing leasehold homes, which would apply for a transitional period of 40 years before falling to a “peppercorn” rate—effectively zero,

Ground rent refers to the payment made by leaseholders to the freeholder for the land on which their property stands. While often modest historically, some modern leases include escalating clauses that have left homeowners paying increasingly high annual charges. The government argues that the cap will significantly reduce costs and could save leaseholders billions over time.

The bill also proposes banning the creation of new leasehold flats and replacing the system with a strengthened commonhold framework. Under commonhold, flat owners would own their property outright while collectively managing shared areas of the building.

Another major change is the removal of the forfeiture rule, which currently allows landlords to reclaim a property if certain debts—sometimes as low as a few hundred pounds—remain unpaid. The new framework would introduce a more proportionate enforcement system.

Together, these proposals signal a structural shift away from leasehold, which critics say is an outdated system rooted in medieval land law.

Why the government believes reform is necessary

The government argues that the existing leasehold structure has created widespread financial and legal problems for homeowners. More than five million people in England and Wales live in leasehold properties, and many face escalating ground rents, high service charges and difficulties selling their homes.

According to Housing Secretary Steve Reed, the reforms are intended to address a system that has undermined the promise of home ownership. He said: “If you own a flat you can be forced to pay ground rents that can become completely unaffordable.”

The government has also highlighted how high or escalating ground rents have affected mortgage lending and property sales. Some lenders are reluctant to finance homes with problematic lease terms, leaving homeowners trapped in unsellable properties. By capping rents at £250, ministers believe the reforms will help stabilise the market and remove barriers to lending.

Another key aim is to empower homeowners by shifting towards commonhold ownership. Unlike leasehold, commonhold gives residents permanent ownership of their homes and a collective say in how the building is managed. Supporters say this model is already widely used in other countries and offers a fairer structure for shared residential buildings.

The push to revive commonhold

Although commonhold was introduced in England and Wales in 2002, it has rarely been adopted by developers. The new bill aims to revitalise the system and make it the default model for new flats.

Under the proposed reforms, existing leaseholders could more easily convert their buildings to commonhold ownership, giving residents control over budgets, maintenance and management decisions.

The government argues that this will remove the landlord-tenant relationship inherent in leasehold and create a structure where homeowners collectively manage their properties.

Reaction from leaseholder campaigners

Many leaseholder groups and housing campaigners have welcomed the reforms as a long-overdue step toward fairness in the housing market.

Campaigners argue that excessive ground rents and complex lease terms have left homeowners financially vulnerable. Some leaseholders currently pay well above £250 annually, particularly where leases contain clauses that double the rent every few years.

However, campaign groups have also raised concerns about the pace of reform. One campaigner warned that the benefits will only materialise if the legislation progresses quickly, stating that “the speed of leasehold reform is glacial.”

Critics within the campaign community also argue that the proposed 40-year transition period before ground rents are reduced to zero could delay meaningful relief for some homeowners.

Opposition from freeholders and investors

While widely welcomed by leaseholder advocates, the proposals have sparked strong opposition from organisations that benefit from ground rent income.

Freeholder groups argue that the cap represents an unfair retrospective change to existing property contracts. The Residential Freehold Association described the measure as a “wholly unjustified interference with existing property rights” that could damage investor confidence.

Investors have also warned of financial consequences. Asset manager M&G, which holds hundreds of millions of pounds in ground rent assets, said the reforms could result in a £230 million one-off hit to its finances.

Some industry commentators also caution that replacing leasehold with commonhold could create management challenges. Justin Herbert of Residential Management Group argued that while residents should have greater control, “full control comes with full responsibility,” particularly regarding building safety compliance.

These concerns reflect the broader tension between consumer protection and property investment interests within the UK housing market.

A fundamental shift in property ownership

The draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill represents a major attempt to reshape the way flats are owned and managed in England and Wales. By capping ground rents, banning new leasehold flats and promoting commonhold ownership, the government hopes to dismantle what many view as an outdated and unfair property system.

Supporters believe the reforms could transform home ownership by giving residents greater control and reducing hidden costs. Opponents, however, warn of unintended consequences for investors and property management structures.

As the draft legislation undergoes parliamentary scrutiny, the final form of the reforms—and their impact on millions of homeowners—will become clearer. What is certain is that the bill signals a decisive move away from traditional leasehold towards a new model of residential property ownership.

Civil Engineering Nationwide Sureties News

CICES and RICS launch Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor designation

The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) have launched a new professional designation: Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor.

The title is available worldwide and recognises the specialist skills, expertise and professional standing of civil engineering surveyors working across infrastructure, construction and the built environment.

Eligible Members and Fellows of both institutions will now be able to use the Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor designation, marking a significant milestone for the profession.

CICES and RICS Launch Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor Designation — Image: Intersect Surveys

Who Can Use the Designation?

To qualify, professionals must meet all of the following requirements:

Membership Criteria

Be a Chartered Member of RICS (MRICS or FRICS), and
Be a Full Member of CICES (MCInstCES or FCInstCES)

Qualification Pathways

Applicants must have qualified via one of the following routes:

Via RICS:

MRICS through the Geomatics pathway, with Engineering competency at Level 3

Via CICES:

Geospatial Engineering core with Engineering specialism
Geospatial Engineering core with Land specialism
Commercial Management core with Cost Engineering specialism
Commercial Management core with Quantity Surveying specialism

Professionals who qualified through the CICES Fellowship nomination route, or via the Construction Law, Photogrammetry/Remote Sensing, or Procurement Engineering specialisms, are not automatically eligible to apply to RICS through its recognition route and will need to undertake the RICS chartered assessment.

A Historic Milestone for CICES

Simon Hamlyn, CEO at CICES, welcomed the development: “This exciting new designation is a significant milestone for CICES because it is the first time in the institution’s 56-year history that members have the opportunity to use the title Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor. Civil engineering surveyors do incredibly vital work here in the UK and globally, and this new designation recognises their valuable contributions to the profession.

“Beyond individual achievement, we believe this designation will further raise the profile of civil engineering surveyors and inspire the next generation, whether they’re just starting or pursuing a new career in this field. We very much look forward to continuing our work alongside colleagues at RICS.”

Strengthening Professional Recognition

Justin Young, CEO of RICS, added: “Civil engineering surveyors play a crucial role in the built environment, and it is right that their expertise is recognised with a specific chartered title. This partnership demonstrates the growing collaboration between RICS and other professional bodies for the good of the profession, of which CICES is among our most important partners.

“Chartered Membership is the Gold Standard for the industry. It recognises that the professional is committed to adhering to the highest standard. Chartership supports and expands professionalisation and means better outcomes for consumers. They play a crucial role in the built environment, ensuring property and construction projects are safe, compliant, and accurately valued.

“I congratulate those professionals who will soon carry the Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor designation and look forward to growing our relationship with CICES further.”

Raising the Profile of Civil Engineering Surveyors

The new designation reinforces collaboration between CICES and RICS and strengthens professional recognition for civil engineering surveyors globally. By formalising a dedicated chartered title, the institutions aim to elevate standards, enhance career progression and inspire future talent entering the sector.

As infrastructure investment and construction activity continue worldwide, the Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor designation is expected to play an important role in promoting professional excellence and confidence across the built environment.

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