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
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.