Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

UK’s first built environment super event hailed a huge success

2026-05-21T08:41:21Z

Laura Townsend: Created page with "File:UKCW London 2026 2.jpg Visitors flocked to Excel in London last week as three key shows came together to form the UK’s ‘built environment super event’. UK Constr..."

[[File:UKCW London 2026 2.jpg]]

Visitors flocked to Excel in London last week as three key shows came together to form the UK’s ‘built environment super event’.

UK Construction Week (UKCW) London ran alongside both Futurebuild and the Stone & Surfaces Show across three-packed days full of conversations, innovation and networking.

Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions, Build Warranty, SolarEdge and HRT Spedition, UKCW London featured over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association Of Air Duct-Cleaners UK.

Show highlights included:

* Three shows in one - Running alongside Futurebuild and the Stone & Surfaces Show for the first time, UKCW London gave visitors access to an even broader range of exhibitors, CPD-accredited content, networking opportunities and cross-sector insight all under one roof. The co-location brought together professionals from across the construction, sustainability, materials and surface design sectors, creating added value for attendees.
* Visitors heard from key construction business leaders and those driving the industry forward, including Rt Hon Sir James Cleverly MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities & Local Government; Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development; Mark Reynolds – Group Executive Chairman, Mace Group; Renee Preston – CEO, Gallaway Construction; George Clarke – Architect and TV presenter.
* Making its debut at UKCW London, the Live Demonstration Zone showcased a programme of hands-on sessions designed to be practical, varied, and genuinely engaging. Visitors experienced everything from live dust-free drilling with Hilti’s Nuron platform, to heavy-duty cordless demonstrations moving large concrete blocks, proving real on-site capability.
* Now in its ninth year, the Role Models Awards recognised exceptional talent and commitment across the sector, with shortlists revealed in three new categories: rising star, pioneer and icon. The winners will be announced at UKCW Birmingham in September.
* The Stone & Surfaces Show, the UK’s only trade exhibition with a section devoted entirely to natural stone, featured its very own Surfaces Cinema showcasing architectural photography and documentary film exploring the cultural and environmental narratives of stone. It included the UK Premiere of Milestone, a feature length documentary from renowned Portuguese director Frederico Miranda.

Sam Patel, Divisional Director, UK Construction Week London, commented: “Bringing UKCW London, Futurebuild and The Stone & Surfaces Show together under one roof created an unrivalled opportunity for the industry to connect across the entire built environment. The response from visitors and exhibitors has exceeded our expectations and reflects the appetite for a more joined-up event experience that encourages collaboration, innovations and new business opportunities.”

Exhibitors at UKCW London were full of praise for the event:

Annie Spooner, Trade Manager, Hilti, said: “This is our first time at UKCW - we’ve had a lot of traction and a good number of interest and leads from C-suite professionals in particular. Our demonstrations on the Live Demo Stage have been really popular, especially for showcasing our heavy duty tools. It’s also been a great opportunity to invite our existing customers along to the show to learn about our new products.”

Tim Reeve, Director, NZC Solutions, commented: It’s been buzzing! There’s been good footfall throughout the show and the quality of conversations we’ve had shows that the right people are here. We’ve been really impressed with the turnout and have already booked for the next show.”

Duncan la Barre, Head of Marketing, NavLive, said: “It’s our first time here at UKCW and it has far exceeded our expectations. Our stand has been consistently busy with visitors queuing to speak to us about our product. We’ve made a number of sales so the return on investment has been excellent. We couldn’t be happier with how it’s gone so we’ve already booked our place for next year.”

Neus Martin, Events and Marketing Manager, Houzz Pro, said: “We’ve been very busy all day and had some great conversations - good quality too. Merging the three shows has had a really good effect.”

Charlie Brown, Technical Manager, Why Media, noted: It’s our first time at UKCW; we’ve done lots of business and also had lots of fun! We’re definitely coming back - 100%!”

UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29 September to 1 October 2026.

File:UKCW London 2026 2.jpg

2026-05-21T08:40:36Z

Laura Townsend:

Six inspiring sessions championing Women in Construction at UKCW London

2026-05-04T12:27:34Z

Laura Townsend:

[[File:UKCW WiC.jpg]]

Returning to Excel London this May (12-14), UK Construction Week (UKCW) will once again be spotlighting women in the construction industry with a dedicated programme of panel discussions, skills workshops and networking opportunities.

The largest and most comprehensive construction event in the UK calendar, UKCW will run alongside both Futurebuild and The Stone & Surfaces Show to bring together 25,000 industry professionals, 600+ exhibitors and 700+ speakers across six dedicated hubs - all under one roof.

Across three days, visitors can explore CPD-accredited panels and seminars that tackle the construction sector’s key challenges around representation and retention, while highlighting opportunities for women to lead the way in driving diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Talk highlights include:

Tuesday 12th May - Contech & AI Hub, 3.00pm

The three C’s for building a more sustainable digital future: construction, circularity and collaboration

Women in BIM explores how construction, circularity and collaboration form the foundation of a more sustainable and digitally enabled built environment. This session will highlight how innovative digital practices and inclusive collaboration can drive circular approaches to construction, reducing waste, improving efficiency and promoting long-term sustainability. Gain insights into emerging technologies, real-world case studies and the vital role of continuous learning in achieving a more resilient built environment.

Speakers: Andrea Charlson (Senior Sustainability Lead & Circular Economy Lead, The Concrete Centre), Eve Choy (Sustainability Manager, Structure Tone), Heba Bevan (CEO, UtterBerry), Marie Grieve (MD, Costello Palmer & Global Vice Chair, Women in BIM)

Tuesday 12th May - Contech & AI Hub, 4.00pm

Building Connections: Women in BIM Networking

Join Women in BIM for an inspiring networking session focused on collaboration and professional growth. As a powerful collaborative network, Women in BIM (WIB) brings together professionals across the digital built environment who are passionate about advancing diversity, inclusion and innovation within the industry. This session offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, share insights and explore how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital transformation are shaping the future of construction and design.

Speakers: Marie Grieve (MD, Costello Palmer & Global Vice Chair, Women in BIM)

Wednesday 13th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am

WiC Leadership & Management: Motivation Intelligence Training Session

Discover practical strategies to build clarity, confidence, and leadership skills for every stage of your career.

Speakers: TBC

Thursday 14th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am

Raising the bar: Delivering the national site standard for female operatives in the construction industry

Learn more about the National Site Standard for Female Operatives and what it means for the future of construction workplaces. This session will examine the practical changes required on site, from welfare facilities to culture and leadership, and why raising standards is essential to attracting and retaining talent. Join a panel of experts as they discuss how consistent, measurable standards can drive accountability and create safer, more equitable environments across the sector.

Speakers: Renee Preston (CEO, Gallaway Construction)

Thursday 14th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 12.30pm

Women in Construction lunch

Join an inspiring and engaging networking lunch celebrating the women shaping the future of the built environment. This informal lunch will bring together professionals from across the sector to connect, collaborate and champion diversity in the industry at every level.

Thursday 14th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 1.10pm

Allies and mentorship in building a career in construction

Developing talent is essential to ensuring long-term capability and effective succession planning in the construction industry. This session looks at how organisations are building strong talent pipelines through mentorship programmes, apprenticeships, and graduate schemes. Speakers will showcase innovative approaches to retaining and upskilling staff.

Speakers: Doreen DiSalvo (Head of Brand & Communications, Hilti)

Sam Patel, Divisional Director at UK Construction Week London, said: “At UKCW, we understand our role in helping to champion the fantastic voices we already have driving diversity and inclusion in the construction sector, while inspiring more women to consider a career in the industry. This year’s programme aims to inspire both reflection and action, and we’re really pleased to have organisations such as Women in BIM on board as partners to help steer this forward.”

Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions and Build Warranty, UKCW London will feature over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association of Air Duct-Cleaners UK.

Following the London Show in May 2026, UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29th September to 1st October 2026.

To view the full UKCW London 2026 agenda, please visit [https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/2026-agenda#/seminars https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/2026-agenda#/seminars].

To register for free, visit: [https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign]

File:UKCW WiC.jpg

2026-05-04T12:27:00Z

Laura Townsend:

Six inspiring sessions championing Women in Construction at UKCW London

2026-05-04T12:26:32Z

Laura Townsend: Created page with "Returning to Excel London this May (12-14), UK Construction Week (UKCW) will once again be spotlighting women in the construction industry with a dedicated programme of panel dis..."

Returning to Excel London this May (12-14), UK Construction Week (UKCW) will once again be spotlighting women in the construction industry with a dedicated programme of panel discussions, skills workshops and networking opportunities.

The largest and most comprehensive construction event in the UK calendar, UKCW will run alongside both Futurebuild and The Stone & Surfaces Show to bring together 25,000 industry professionals, 600+ exhibitors and 700+ speakers across six dedicated hubs - all under one roof.

Across three days, visitors can explore CPD-accredited panels and seminars that tackle the construction sector’s key challenges around representation and retention, while highlighting opportunities for women to lead the way in driving diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Talk highlights include:

Tuesday 12th May - Contech & AI Hub, 3.00pm

The three C’s for building a more sustainable digital future: construction, circularity and collaboration

Women in BIM explores how construction, circularity and collaboration form the foundation of a more sustainable and digitally enabled built environment. This session will highlight how innovative digital practices and inclusive collaboration can drive circular approaches to construction, reducing waste, improving efficiency and promoting long-term sustainability. Gain insights into emerging technologies, real-world case studies and the vital role of continuous learning in achieving a more resilient built environment.

Speakers: Andrea Charlson (Senior Sustainability Lead & Circular Economy Lead, The Concrete Centre), Eve Choy (Sustainability Manager, Structure Tone), Heba Bevan (CEO, UtterBerry), Marie Grieve (MD, Costello Palmer & Global Vice Chair, Women in BIM)

Tuesday 12th May - Contech & AI Hub, 4.00pm

Building Connections: Women in BIM Networking

Join Women in BIM for an inspiring networking session focused on collaboration and professional growth. As a powerful collaborative network, Women in BIM (WIB) brings together professionals across the digital built environment who are passionate about advancing diversity, inclusion and innovation within the industry. This session offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, share insights and explore how Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital transformation are shaping the future of construction and design.

Speakers: Marie Grieve (MD, Costello Palmer & Global Vice Chair, Women in BIM)

Wednesday 13th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am

WiC Leadership & Management: Motivation Intelligence Training Session

Discover practical strategies to build clarity, confidence, and leadership skills for every stage of your career.

Speakers: TBC

Thursday 14th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am

Raising the bar: Delivering the national site standard for female operatives in the construction industry

Learn more about the National Site Standard for Female Operatives and what it means for the future of construction workplaces. This session will examine the practical changes required on site, from welfare facilities to culture and leadership, and why raising standards is essential to attracting and retaining talent. Join a panel of experts as they discuss how consistent, measurable standards can drive accountability and create safer, more equitable environments across the sector.

Speakers: Renee Preston (CEO, Gallaway Construction)

Thursday 14th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 12.30pm

Women in Construction lunch

Join an inspiring and engaging networking lunch celebrating the women shaping the future of the built environment. This informal lunch will bring together professionals from across the sector to connect, collaborate and champion diversity in the industry at every level.

Thursday 14th May - Culture Change & Skills Hub, 1.10pm

Allies and mentorship in building a career in construction

Developing talent is essential to ensuring long-term capability and effective succession planning in the construction industry. This session looks at how organisations are building strong talent pipelines through mentorship programmes, apprenticeships, and graduate schemes. Speakers will showcase innovative approaches to retaining and upskilling staff.

Speakers: Doreen DiSalvo (Head of Brand & Communications, Hilti)

Sam Patel, Divisional Director at UK Construction Week London, said: “At UKCW, we understand our role in helping to champion the fantastic voices we already have driving diversity and inclusion in the construction sector, while inspiring more women to consider a career in the industry. This year’s programme aims to inspire both reflection and action, and we’re really pleased to have organisations such as Women in BIM on board as partners to help steer this forward.”

Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions and Build Warranty, UKCW London will feature over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association of Air Duct-Cleaners UK.

Following the London Show in May 2026, UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29th September to 1st October 2026.

To view the full UKCW London 2026 agenda, please visit [https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/2026-agenda#/seminars https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/2026-agenda#/seminars].

To register for free, visit: [https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign]

Sir James Cleverly MP announced as keynote speaker at UK Construction Week London

2026-04-08T10:11:15Z

Laura Townsend: Created page with "File:Sir James Cleverly.jpeg UK Construction Week (UKCW), the UK’s largest and most comprehensive construction event, has announced that Rt Hon Sir James Cleverly MP, Shad..."

[[File:Sir James Cleverly.jpeg]]

UK Construction Week (UKCW), the UK’s largest and most comprehensive construction event, has announced that Rt Hon Sir James Cleverly MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Housing, Communities & Local Government, will headline as a keynote speaker at its London show next month.

Sir James will speak at the Housing Action Stage on Thursday May 14th at 12.30pm, addressing some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities currently facing the UK housing sector. He will be joined by a strong line-up of senior policymakers, including Mike Reader MP, the Department for Business and Trade’s Business Construction Champion, and Chris McDonald MP, Minister for Industry at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Business and Trade.

Further high-profile speakers confirmed for UKCW London include:

* Mark Farmer - Founder & Board Executive, Cast Consultancy
* Fiona Henderson - Director of Social Value, Mace Group
* Alex Small - Digital Platforms & Innovation Lead, Tata Steel
* Emma Whigham - Alliance Operations Director, New Hospitals Programme

From May 12th-14th, UK Construction Week London will come together with Futurebuild and The Stone & Surfaces Show, creating the UK's largest event uniting the entire built environment, attracting over 25,000 industry professionals, where every stage of a project gets decided.

As the largest and most comprehensive construction event in the UK calendar, the show will bring together 25,000 industry professionals, 600+ exhibitors and 700+ speakers across six dedicated stages - all under one roof.

Attendees can expect a packed programme of CPD-accredited panels and seminars tackling the sector’s most pressing issues, covering everything from innovation in construction methods, to product testing and assurance; housing insights to workforce capacity; workplace culture to data-driven project management.

Sam Patel, Divisional Director at UK Construction Week London, commented: “Securing Sir James Cleverly as a speaker highlights the scale and influence of UK Construction Week. Alongside an exceptional line-up of industry leaders, policymakers and innovators, it reinforces our position as the UK’s leading platform for shaping the future of the built environment.”

Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions and Build Warranty, UKCW London will feature over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association of Air Duct-Cleaners UK.

Following the London Show in May 2026, UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29th September to 1st October 2026.

To register for free, visit: [https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign]

File:Sir James Cleverly.jpeg

2026-04-08T10:10:20Z

Laura Townsend:

Deputy Mayor of London amongst first speakers announced for UK Construction Week

2026-03-20T09:26:36Z

Laura Townsend: Created page with "File:Tom Copley.png Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, has been announced as one of the first headline speakers for UK Construction ..."

[[File:Tom Copley.png]]

Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, has been announced as one of the first headline speakers for UK Construction Week London at Excel (12-14 May).

Earlier this year, UKCW announced it had joined forces with Futurebuild to create the UK’s Built Environment super event, where every stage of a project gets decided. As the largest and most comprehensive construction event in the UK calendar, the show will bring together 25,000 industry professionals, 600+ exhibitors and 700+ speakers across six dedicated stages - all under one roof.

Across three days, visitors can explore a packed programme of CPD-accredited panels and seminars tackling the sector’s most pressing issues, featuring an unbeatable line-up of high profile industry figures and thought leaders. The event will also feature a keynote speech from architect and Channel 4 presenter George Clarke.

Notable speakers at UKCW London will include:

Headline speakers:

* George Clarke – Architect and TV presenter
* Tom Copley – Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development

Industry leadership:

* Mark Reynolds – Group Executive Chairman, Mace Group
* Keith Waller, Director – Industrialised Construction, High Value Manufacturing Catapult
* Renee Preston – CEO, Gallaway Construction
* Huda As’ad, Managing Director – Capital Projects & Infrastructure UKI, Accenture
* Ron Lang – Regional Director, AtkinsRealis

Sustainability and innovation:

* Professor Sean Smith – Chair of Future Construction, School of Engineering, University of Edinburgh
* Danielle Haskings – Head of Sustainability and Social Value, MCS
* Julia Baker – Technical Director, Nature Services, Mott MacDonald
* Neil Beamsley – Head of Nature & Biodiversity, Bellway Homes

Sam Patel, Divisional Director, UK Construction Week London, commented: “Year after year, we continue to attract some of the biggest names in the industry. Securing such influential voices reflects our commitment to bringing together the people who are actively shaping the future of policy, design and delivery, and this year’s show is set to be the largest and most impactful UKCW yet.”

Opened by architect and Channel 4 presenter George Clarke, UKCW London attracts exhibitors from across the globe with big names such as Hilti Group, Cedral UK by Etex, Polypipe, FM Approvals, Hird and WOLFF Onsite set to showcase their latest products.

Face-to-face networking will continue to be at the core of the multi award-winning show. Delegates can use the dedicated show app to plan ahead to book meetings in advance, as well as seminars, industry roundtables, live workshops, and exclusive ‘meet the buyer’ sessions in the Build Connect Networking Lounge.

Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions and Build Warranty, UKCW London will feature over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association Of Air Duct-Cleaners UK.

Visitors can register for free by visiting: [https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign].

Following the London show in May 2026, UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29 September to 1 October 2026.

File:Tom Copley.png

2026-03-20T09:25:49Z

Laura Townsend: