Episodes

  • UK Construction 2.0 | Episode 113

    UK Construction 2.0 | Episode 113
    Apr 29 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 113 - UK Construction 2.0 (29.04.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we dive into the evolving standards for affordable housing design, the government's investment in technical skills for high-growth industries, and CITB's Industry Impact Fund that we're struggling to work out why we haven't heard about it before! Let's go.As mentioned in the episode:CITB Industry Impact Fund (IIF)SLG Horizon Report 2026NOW, let's go!Good Homes for All 2.0: ‘The context has shifted materially since the first edition’The second edition of "Good Homes for All" responds to a dramatically changed environment for affordable housing. Rising construction costs, tighter viability, and deepening housing emergencies have made design quality more crucial than ever. Architects Luke Tozer and Jay Morton emphasize that design is not a luxury but a necessity for resolving competing pressures—such as density, viability, and efficient land use.The publication showcases 15 built schemes, demonstrating how thoughtful design can unlock delivery, create enduring places, and support communities for generations. It targets policymakers, developers, and treasury teams, aiming to shift perceptions so that design is seen as a tool for delivery, not a constraint. The overarching message: prioritizing design quality is essential for aligning scarce resources with urgent needs, and architects must be involved early to ensure long-term value and public health benefits.New Technical Excellence Colleges focus on fastest-growing industriesThe UK government is investing £175 million in 19 new Technical Excellence Colleges (TECs) to train 65,000 learners for high-demand jobs in sectors like advanced manufacturing, clean energy, defence, and digital technologies. This initiative addresses the projected need for 600,000 additional workers by 2030 and aims to provide clear routes from education to well-paid, skilled employment. TECs are strategically located to match regional industry demands and will act as hubs of excellence, raising standards nationwide.The investment supports improved teaching, courses, and access to specialist equipment, building on previous construction-focused TECs. The government’s broader goal is to break down barriers to opportunity, increase higher-level learning among young people, and drive local and national growth. This aligns with the Industrial Strategy and includes a major cash injection to create more apprenticeships and employment opportunities.Free digital training programme for small buildersSmall, medium, and micro construction businesses can now access a free digital training programme designed to help them adopt and integrate modern technology into their operations. Supported by CITB’s Industry Impact Fund, the "Solving Tech for Small Builders" programme was developed by North London Loft Rooms and partners, following a successful pilot with 50 builders.The course, now expanded with £98,000 in funding, is accessible online and delivered in video format, designed to be neurodiverse-friendly. It aims to boost confidence and financial outcomes for participants, making technology practical and accessible. The Industry Impact Fund backs innovative, scalable projects that address workforce challenges, supporting skills, digital adoption, and sustainable solutions across the sector.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 ...
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    33 mins
  • Women and the Wharf are Winning | Episode 112

    Women and the Wharf are Winning | Episode 112
    Apr 22 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 112 - Women and the Wharf are Winning (22.04.26)Constructing Excellence AI Roundtable Registration (22.04.26 @ 2pm)In this episode, we examine the conflicting perspectives on the impact of the Middle East conflict, celebrate the surge in women completing construction apprenticeships, and hear from Canary Wharf’s development director about the estate’s remarkable transformation. Let's do this.Two conflicting reports on the impact of the Middle East conflictMiddle East conflict to have ‘limited impact’ on full-year results, says Barratt RedrowBarratt Redrow, a leading UK housebuilder, has stated that the Middle East conflict will have only a limited effect on its full-year 2026 results. The company reported a solid third quarter, with a resilient reservation rate and strong forward sales. CEO David Thomas highlighted Barratt Redrow’s proven ability to navigate uncertainty, maintaining a 2% build cost inflation forecast for 2026. However, analysts urge caution, noting that current reservation rates may be supported by buyers using previously secured, lower-priced mortgages. The company acknowledges that higher energy costs could drive up material prices in 2027 and will provide further updates in July.Conflict in Middle East causes construction sector uncertaintyIn contrast, other industry voices are more cautious. Consultants warn that the conflict could lead to higher energy and material costs, impacting project pricing and contractors’ willingness to take on new work. The sector is closely monitoring the situation, aware that the conflict’s trajectory could quickly alter forecasts and disrupt project pipelines. The overall mood is one of vigilance, as stakeholders weigh the risks of cost inflation and possible delays against the need to maintain momentum in a challenging market.Women completing construction apprenticeships have tripled since 2018The UK construction industry is seeing a significant shift in gender diversity. According to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the number of women starting construction apprenticeships rose from 1,450 in 2018 to 2,410 in 2025, and completions increased from 340 to 910. CITB and partners like The Skills Centre have invested in training and work placements, with 182 women trained for construction employment in 2025 alone.The Women and Work All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) released a report in 2025 focusing on strategies to break down barriers for women entering construction. With the industry needing 47,000 additional workers annually, diversity is seen as a solution to the skills gap. Deb Madden, Executive Director at CITB, emphasized the importance of retaining women in the sector and ensuring their apprenticeships lead to long-term, secure careers.‘It was never dying.’ Canary Wharf’s development director on the resurgence of the Docklands estateCanary Wharf, once considered in decline, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. Chief development officer Tom Venner rejects the narrative of decline, describing how the estate has transformed over the past five to six years. Originally finance-focused, Canary Wharf is now diversifying into residential, life sciences, and leisure. By 2028, only 55% of the estate will be finance-related, down from over 90% in the 1990s. The area now boasts more than 3,500 residents, over 300 retailers, hotels, and vibrant weekend activity.In 2025, the estate recorded its highest-ever footfall, with 72.6 million visitors. Major projects include JP Morgan’s new European headquarters, a three-million-square-foot development by Foster & Partners, and the transformation of the HSBC tower into a mixed-use space with a hotel and leisure facilities. Venner highlighted investments in public spaces, amenities, and sustainability, as well as adaptability in the face of challenges such as the collapse of modular construction firm Caledonian. Canary Wharf continues to attract major tenants and remains a key player in London’s property market.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 ...
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    35 mins
  • Opportunity and Optimism | Episode 111

    Opportunity and Optimism | Episode 111
    Apr 15 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 111 - Opportunity and Optimism (15.04.26)In this episode, we take a look at the efforts to accelerate cladding remediation, the transformative power of apprenticeships and the resilience of architects amidst global challenges. Let's go!BSR Aims to Beat 12-Week Decision Time on Cladding ApplicationsThe Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is taking significant steps to address the backlog of external cladding remediation applications. With 299 live cases awaiting decisions and current median approval times stretching to 36 weeks, the BSR has set an ambitious goal to reduce decision times to under 12 weeks by December. While this is still above the statutory eight-week target, it represents a major improvement.Key measures include:Dedicated Taskforce: A specialised team will streamline communication with applicants and expedite approvals.Flexible Approval Methods: Projects can commence while technical issues are being resolved.Enhanced Resources: New guidance and tools will help applicants submit complete and accurate applications, reducing delays caused by errors.Online Tracking: Applicants will soon be able to monitor the status of their submissions online.BSR’s board chair, Lord Andy Roe, emphasised the importance of these changes in ensuring high-rise residents experience essential safety improvements without unnecessary delays. This initiative is a critical step in addressing the legacy of cladding issues and improving building safety across the UK.The Value of Apprenticeships for Social Mobility and Regional Growth is Real. So What’s Holding Businesses Back?Apprenticeships are a powerful tool for driving social mobility and regional economic growth, particularly in the construction industry. Nicola Hodkinson highlights how construction offers unique opportunities for individuals to build meaningful careers without traditional academic routes, allowing them to earn while they learn and progress from apprentice to leadership roles.However, structural challenges are preventing businesses from fully leveraging apprenticeships:Project-Based Nature of Construction: Unlike stable workplaces, construction projects are temporary and geographically dispersed, making consistent training and oversight challenging.Economic Uncertainty: The industry’s low margins and high risks make long-term commitments to apprenticeships financially daunting for many employers.Policy Misalignment: Current frameworks are designed for industries with predictable employment models, which don’t align with construction’s dynamic nature.Hodkinson calls for targeted government support, including financial assistance for early-stage apprenticeship costs, flexible delivery models, and improved pipeline visibility through long-term procurement planning. By addressing these barriers, the construction industry can unlock the full potential of apprenticeships, creating pathways to prosperity for individuals and communities.Architects Remain Optimistic Despite Impact of Middle East Conflict, RIBA Survey FindsThe latest RIBA Future Trends survey reveals cautious optimism among architects, despite the economic pressures stemming from the Middle East conflict. While workload expectations softened slightly in March, the overall outlook remains positive, with medium and large practices showing significant growth in confidence.Key findings from the survey include:Workload Expectations: The index dipped from +5 in February to +1 in March, but medium and large practices saw a sharp increase in confidence, with indices rising from +12 to +39.Sector-Specific Trends: Public and commercial sectors showed slight improvements, while private housing and community sectors experienced declines.Challenges from the Middle East Conflict: The conflict has led to increased material costs, supply chain pressures, and reduced client confidence, which could impact new commissions if inflation and interest rates rise.Despite these challenges, RIBA’s executive director Adrian Dobson praised the resilience of the profession, noting that architects remain optimistic about their ability to navigate these turbulent times. This optimism stands in contrast to the broader construction industry, which has seen a sharp decline in new orders and a significant rise in material costs.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 ...
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    36 mins
  • Graduates in Hard Hats | Episode 110

    Graduates in Hard Hats | Episode 110
    Apr 8 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 110 - Graduates in Hard Hats (08.04.26)In this episode, we traverse from government funding initiatives to infrastructure investments and surprising career trends, it's what's shaping the industry right now, so let’s dive in!MHCLG Announces £70m for Building Inspector Training and Safety ReformsThe Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has committed £70 million to address the shortage of building inspectors and fire engineers. This funding will train up to 700 new inspectors and expand fire engineering education.Additionally, consultations are underway to streamline minor works in high-risk buildings and improve fire risk assessor standards. These measures aim to enhance building safety and address skills shortages in the sector.£165m Fund to Unlock Stalled Housing SitesThe UK government has launched the Growth and Housing Accelerator Fund, allocating £165 million to provide transport infrastructure for stalled housing and development sites near motorways and A-roads.This initiative, part of the Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3), seeks to revive idle projects, create jobs, and address housing shortages. Local authorities will soon be invited to register eligible sites for funding consideration.Nearly Half of UK Graduates Would Choose Construction CareersA survey by MoneySuperMarket reveals that 45% of UK graduates would opt for a trade career, such as construction, if given the chance to start over. Electricians are the most popular choice, followed by painters/decorators and carpenters/joiners. Key motivators include the appeal of self-employment, avoiding desk jobs, and better long-term earnings.Despite this interest, only 30% of young people seriously consider construction careers, highlighting the need for targeted recruitment efforts to address the industry’s skills gapBiosRyan 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.
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    33 mins
  • The Great British Build-Up | Episode 109

    The Great British Build-Up | Episode 109
    Apr 1 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 109 - The Great British Build-Up (01.04.26)In this episode we cover groundbreaking policy changes, ambitious housing plans and strategies to improve project delivery, exploring how these initiatives aim to transform the industry and impact communities across the country. Let’s get going!Construction retentions to be bannedThe UK government has announced the abolition of retention payments in construction contracts to protect smaller firms from financial risks like insolvency and late payments. Retention payments, often up to 5% of a contract’s value, have long been criticized for restricting cash flow and exposing subcontractors to risks.This reform, supported by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), is expected to create fairer contract terms and reduce instability in the industry. However, concerns remain about potential challenges, such as firms delaying payments to circumvent the ban. To address this, measures like adjudication processes and court enforcement will be introduced.The ban is part of a broader effort to tackle late payment practices, which cost the UK economy £11 billion annually. Other measures include a maximum 60-day payment term for large firms paying smaller suppliers and enhanced powers for the Small Business Commissioner to investigate and penalize poor payment practices.New Towns plan part of radical action to meet housebuilding targetThe UK government plans to establish seven new towns across England to address the housing crisis and drive economic growth. The initiative emphasizes affordable housing, public transport, and infrastructure to create thriving communities. Locations like Tempsford, strategically positioned to connect key cities, are seen as promising examples.The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) have welcomed the plans, highlighting the importance of high-quality design, affordable housing, and strong partnerships. The government’s launch of a National Housing Bank and subsidies for lower-cost lending are expected to support large-scale housing delivery.Experts stress that effective implementation will be key, requiring long-term funding, collaboration, and a commitment to good placemaking to ensure these new towns succeed.Impatient for infrastructure? Four changes to improve UK project deliveryThe UK’s infrastructure projects have faced delays and budget overruns, with only 59% of planned spending materializing between 2015 and 2024. McKinsey proposes four key changes to address these challenges:Better Planning and Budgeting: Robust, long-term planning can reduce volatility and improve project success rates, as seen in Norway’s State Project Model.Data-Driven Decision Making: Using consistent data definitions and structured reporting can help leaders make informed decisions and improve performance.Digital Tools and AI: Technologies like generative scheduling and digital twins have demonstrated their ability to save time and costs in UK projects.Consistent Leadership: Stable leadership, as seen in the Thames Tideway Tunnel project, ensures continuity and better outcomes.By adopting these strategies, the UK can improve infrastructure delivery and ensure projects meet their goals.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 ...
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    36 mins
  • Gamification of Construction | Episode 108

    Gamification of Construction | Episode 108
    Mar 25 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 108 - Gamification of Construction (25.03.26)In this episode we're going youthful, exploring how the next generation is shaping the future of construction, from leveraging gaming skills to government initiatives and promising data on the industry’s age profile. Let's all drink from the fountain of construction youth.But first:Check Adobe Acrobat PDF Spaces which helps us put this podcast together each week: https://bit.ly/4swHSiqThe Next Generation’s Gaming Skills Can Help Shape Modern ConstructionGaming isn’t just a pastime—it’s a training ground for the future of construction. According to Louisa Finlay, COO and Chief People Officer at Kier, the skills honed through gaming, such as spatial awareness, 3D worldbuilding, teamwork, problem-solving, and risk assessment, are directly transferable to modern construction practices like digital construction, BIM, project planning, and 3D modeling.During Open Doors Week (March 23–28), Kier aims to show young people how their digital hobbies can translate into fulfilling careers in construction. With the industry increasingly embracing technology and data-driven solutions, gaming enthusiasts already possess many of the skills needed to thrive in this evolving field.Kier’s “naturally digital” initiative highlights the importance of embedding digital thinking into the culture of construction, making it second nature for professionals.Open Doors Week provides a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation by showcasing how their passions can align with the industry’s needs.Construction Industry Welcomes Young Employment DriveThe UK government has launched a major initiative to create 200,000 new jobs and apprenticeships for young people in the construction industry, backed by £1 billion in funding.This move aims to address the alarming rise in youth unemployment, which increased by 37% between 2021 and 2024.Key measures include:A £3,000 grant for businesses hiring young people aged 18–24 who have been on Universal Credit and unemployed for at least six months.This is expected to create 60,000 jobs over three years.Expanding the Jobs Guarantee to include 18–24-year-olds, creating 35,000 subsidized jobs.Introducing an Apprenticeship Incentive, offering SME businesses £2,000 for each new employee aged 16–24, potentially generating 50,000 jobs.Industry leaders, including the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), have welcomed the initiative.FMB CEO Brian Berry emphasized the importance of employer-led preparation, meaningful work experience, and ongoing support to ensure the success of these programs.With proper implementation, this initiative could significantly reduce youth unemployment and address the construction industry’s skills gap.Skills Card Data Suggests Construction’s Age Profile Is Finally ImprovingFor decades, the construction industry has faced concerns about an aging workforce, but new data from the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) offers a promising outlook.In 2025, 25.2% of CSCS cards were held by individuals under the age of 30, a significant increase from 17% in 2021.This eight-point rise in the share of young workers challenges the long-standing narrative that young people are not interested in construction careers.CSCS Chief Executive Sean Kearns highlighted the importance of sustaining this trend by focusing on upskilling and retaining young talent to ensure the industry’s long-term growth.The data underscores the potential for a demographic shift in construction, with more young people entering the field. The challenge now lies in creating an environment that supports their development and ensures they remain engaged in the industry.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 ...
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    35 mins
  • 706,000 Workers Wanted | Episode 107

    706,000 Workers Wanted | Episode 107
    Mar 18 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 107 - 706,000 Workers Wanted (18.03.26)In this episode, we're covering a record-breaking infrastructure pipeline, calls for a streamlined planning system and a transformative housing project in London. Plus a bonus intro to congratulate Ryan and the SLG Team for reaching the top spot in the CMA Agency League 2025.Updated UK Infrastructure Pipeline tops £700bn and gives granular data for workforce planningThe UK Government has unveiled its updated 10-year Infrastructure Pipeline, now valued at an impressive £718 billion. This comprehensive plan includes detailed workforce demand projections, estimating the need for up to 706,000 workers annually over the next five years, with construction roles making up the majority.The Pipeline is designed to help businesses plan recruitment, training, and investments, while providing clarity on regional investment opportunities. With energy projects leading the way, this update is a significant step toward ensuring the UK’s infrastructure development aligns with future needs.RIBA calls for simpler, faster planning system that protects design qualityThe Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), advocating for a more efficient and predictable planning system.RIBA supports measures to link housing delivery with infrastructure, promote density near rail stations, and enforce accessible housing standards. However, the institute has raised concerns about restrictions on local authorities setting higher energy efficiency standards, emphasising the need to meet net-zero targets. RIBA’s call to action highlights the importance of balancing housing delivery with environmental sustainability and design quality.Go-ahead for 2,300-home scheme at former GSK London HQA major redevelopment project has been approved for the former GlaxoSmithKline headquarters in Brentford, West London. The 13-acre site will be transformed into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood featuring over 2,300 homes, 35% of which will be affordable housing, alongside 330,000 square feet of commercial and retail space.The project emphasises sustainability, with a focus on retrofitting existing buildings to reduce embodied carbon. Public spaces, employment hubs, and a new NHS primary care facility are also part of the plan, promising to revitalise the area and reconnect it with Brentford High Street.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.
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    30 mins
  • Women, Warnings and Wins | Episode 106

    Women, Warnings and Wins | Episode 106
    Mar 11 2026
    Construction Disrupted Episode 106 - Women, Warnings and Wins (11.03.26)In this episode we take a loom into record-breaking growth in manufacturing output under the threat of material price increases to critical updates on gateway 2 cases and efforts to improve inclusivity on job sites, we’ve got a lot to cover. Let’s get started!Manufacturing Output Growth at 17-Month High in FebruaryFebruary marked a significant milestone for UK manufacturing, with output growth reaching its fastest pace in 17 months.The S&P Global UK Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) recorded a score of 51.7, signaling expansion for the fourth consecutive month.This growth was driven by increased new business from both domestic and international markets, with export orders rising at the fastest rate in four-and-a-half years.Key markets such as North America, mainland China, the EU, and the Middle East contributed to this positive trend.Rob Dobson, Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, highlighted the sector’s optimism, with nearly 60% of manufacturers expecting production to rise over the next year. Factors such as new product launches, improved client confidence, and planned investments are expected to sustain this growth despite challenges like geopolitical uncertainty and recent government policy changes.Special Mention: The Construction Products Association has issued warnings about the potential impact of rising material prices on UK construction jobs if the Middle East conflict continues.Higher energy costs, particularly due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz oil and gas route, could lead to significant increases in the cost of key construction products.Gateway 2 Cases Backlog Virtually Cleared as Government Responds to Damning Lords Report on BSRThe UK government has made significant progress in addressing the backlog of Gateway 2 cases, a critical step in the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) process. This development comes in response to a damning report from the House of Lords, which criticized delays in implementing safety measures following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.The Gateway 2 process is a vital part of ensuring that high-risk buildings meet stringent safety standards before construction begins. Clearing the backlog demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving building safety and restoring public confidence in the sector. This progress is expected to pave the way for more efficient and safer construction practices across the UK.How the National Site Standard Can Make Women’s Inclusion the Norm on Construction SitesThe National Site Standard is emerging as a transformative initiative to promote gender inclusivity on construction sites. Historically, the construction industry has been male-dominated, but this standard aims to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for women.By implementing policies that address workplace culture, safety, and accessibility, the National Site Standard seeks to break down barriers and encourage more women to pursue careers in construction. This initiative is not only a step toward gender equality but also a way to tap into a broader talent pool, ensuring the industry’s growth and innovation.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 ...
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    34 mins