Episode Details

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 February

February 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 BSR

The 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 Sites

The 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 enviro