As you look at the plans for a stunning new construction project, it’s easy to think of your role as a Quantity Surveyor as a fairly modern profession. However, if you travelled back to ancient Egypt at the time of the building of the pyramids and temples – you’d find people having very much a […]
According to figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) women now make up a higher proportion of the construction workforce than at any time since official records began. The construction workforce was 15.8 per cent female in April to June 2023, up 1.2 per cent on the previous quarter. Before the pandemic this figure […]
While a Quantity Surveyor will be engaged at the beginning of a project to prepare initial cost estimates, they will play a vital role throughout the process, monitoring ongoing costs and amending any projections when there are changes to the project, which often occur. As you progress in your career as a Quantity Surveyor, there […]
The first quarter of 2025 has seen a 12% increase in the price of key materials including bricks, steel, and insulation. Contractors are warning that smaller firms may not survive unless action is taken. The Construction Products Association has called for urgent government intervention to stabilise supply chains and reduce import tariffs. “Volatility is hurting […]
The construction industry is seeing a record rise in female apprenticeships, with a 40% year-on-year increase reported in 2024. Initiatives like the Women Into Construction programme and flexible on-site training have contributed to the trend. Emily James, a 19-year-old apprentice site manager in Leeds, said, “It’s challenging, but it’s the most rewarding thing I’ve done.” […]
Manchester City Council has approved two 12-storey mass timber residential towers, marking a bold shift in sustainable building policy. The approval sets a precedent for tall timber construction in the UK. The towers, designed by Hawkins&Brown, will use cross-laminated timber (CLT) sourced from sustainably managed European forests. The project aims for BREEAM Outstanding certification. “Timber […]
AI and robotics are increasingly becoming a fixture on UK construction sites. From autonomous site inspections using drones to robotic arms laying bricks, technology is improving safety and productivity. Companies such as Balfour Beatty and Kier have invested heavily in digital site management tools. AI is being used for risk assessment, planning logistics, and optimising […]
A wave of school projects across Greater London is embracing modular construction to address the city’s classroom shortage. Boroughs including Croydon and Hackney are adopting off-site manufacturing to deliver high-quality learning environments in record time. The Department for Education has approved over 50 modular builds in 2025, citing reduced disruption, cost efficiency, and energy savings. […]
Despite increased wages and training incentives, skilled labour shortages continue to hamper construction output across the UK. A recent survey by the Construction Leadership Council revealed that over 60% of firms are operating below capacity due to understaffing. Brexit, an aging workforce, and slow apprenticeship uptake have been blamed for the persistent gaps. Organisations like […]
The Building Safety Act 2025 introduces sweeping changes to fire safety requirements for buildings over 18 metres tall. The legislation bans the use of certain cladding materials and mandates enhanced evacuation protocols and fire suppression systems. “The Grenfell tragedy must never be repeated,” said Housing Minister James Cartlidge. “These regulations are our strongest commitment to […]
