2016 population projections
In June 2016, the latest Population Projections and accompanying Sub-National Population Projections were published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Based on 2014 figures, they indicate a UK population that, compared with the 2012 projections, is both larger and increasingly ageing.
The UK population is projected to increase by 9.7 million over the next 25 years (2014-2039) from an estimated 64.6 million in mid-2014 to 74.3 million by mid-2039.
In addition, the population is projected to continue ageing. In 2014, the average (median) age was 40.0 years, whereas by mid-2039 this is estimated to be 42.9. By that time more than one in 12 of the population is projected to be aged 80 or over.
In terms of the overall population increase, England accounts for the largest part, with the population projected to increase by 9.0 million from 2014 to 2039. This is 0.6% higher than the 2012 projection.
The areas in England that are experiencing the fastest population growth are London, the South East and the East. Assumed net migration accounts for 51% of the increase, with natural increase resulting from a higher birth than death rate accounting for the 49%.
The figures will pose increasing challenges to local authorities, all but 11 of which are projected to grow in population over the next 25 years. Local plans will be interrogated to determine the extent to which local authorities have taken the new projections into account when assessing housing need.
To read the full report, see the ONS.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Compact sustainable city.
- Densification.
- Exploring the impact of the ageing population on the workforce and built environment.
- Changing lifestyles.
- Masterplanning.
- National infrastructure plan.
- Redefining density, making the best use of London’s land to build more and better homes.
[edit] External references
- Planning Portal - Latest population projections published.
Featured articles and news
IHBC book review: Charles Barry’s monumental struggle to rebuild the Houses of Parliament.
Read about RSHP's British Museum extension which has been shortlisted for the 2017 Stirling Prize.
Read our introductory article to building a house extension.
More updates from DCMS about the large-scale testing of cladding systems and the number of buildings affected.
UandI secure resolution to grant planning consent for major new regeneration project.
Infrastructure and the historic environment
IHBC article considers how heritage is dealt with when infrastructure schemes are authorised.
It was the tallest structure in the world for 3,800 years, but to this day the exact construction techniques are a mystery.
Shortlist for the industry's most coveted award announced.
Government responds to Mark Farmer's review of industry, rejecting the call for a levy on clients.
Peter Hansford to examine what wider lessons can be learned from the fire.
Every project is subject to uncertainty. How can construction better understand uncertainty for performance improvement?
MAD Architects reveal their designs for a futuristic campus for electric car manufacturer.
Homebuyers could borrow more with better forecasting of energy bills, according to industry consortium's new report.
Grenfell Tower articles updated daily
