As we move into 2026, the outlook for the construction industry appears cautiously optimistic, particularly for businesses working within the public sector. Following recent Government announcements and signals from the Budget, there is a clear intention to drive investment into vital public infrastructure, including schools, hospitals and transport projects.
For quantity surveyors and construction professionals across Shropshire, Birmingham, Mid Wales and beyond, this could mark a year of renewed activity and long-awaited progress on major schemes.
Tim Lloyd, owner of leading quantity surveyors CQS Solutions, which has offices in Telford, Birmingham and Welshpool, believes the year ahead will bring a noticeable uplift in public sector building projects.
“I think we will certainly see an increase in activity around some big ticket projects, such as new schools, hospitals and infrastructure, as the Government pushes investment in the public sector. The recent Budget certainly suggested that was at the top of their agenda,” he said.
Public sector investment gathers pace
After several years of uncertainty and delays across the construction sector, the renewed focus on public spending is welcome news. Many local authorities and NHS trusts have schemes that have been sitting on the drawing board for a long time, awaiting funding certainty and planning clarity.
Increased investment in education and healthcare buildings is expected to be a key driver of growth throughout 2026. Alongside this, infrastructure projects aimed at improving transport links and supporting regional economic development are likely to move forward, particularly in areas targeted for levelling up.
For quantity surveyors, this means an increased demand for cost planning, procurement advice and contract management to ensure public money is spent efficiently and delivers long-term value.
Planning reform and housing delivery
Beyond the public sector, planning reform is expected to play a major role in unlocking stalled development. The Government’s commitment to deregulating parts of the planning system is designed to remove bottlenecks and speed up the delivery of new homes.
“At the same time the deregulation of the planning system should see spades finally starting to go into the ground to build some of the 1.5 million new homes the Government has promised during the course of this parliament,” Tim explained.
If these reforms are implemented effectively, 2026 could mark a turning point for residential development, with developers gaining greater confidence to proceed with schemes that have previously been delayed by lengthy approval processes.
The skills challenge remains
While the signs of growth are encouraging, there remains a significant challenge that could limit progress. Skills and labour shortages continue to affect the construction industry, from site operatives through to professional roles.
“It all needs to be underpinned by a serious focus on building the skills and training the industry needs to develop a pipeline of talent for the future. Without that, we cannot hope to develop the homes and infrastructure we urgently need,” Tim added.
Investment in apprenticeships, training and professional development will be critical if the industry is to meet increased demand without pushing costs unsustainably high or delaying projects.
2026 – A year of opportunity
Overall, 2026 looks set to be a year of opportunity for the construction sector, particularly for firms with experience in public sector delivery. For quantity surveyors, the emphasis on value for money, risk management and cost certainty will be more important than ever as spending ramps up.
If the promised investment materialises and the skills challenge is tackled head on, 2026 could be a defining year for the built environment and the communities it serves.
At CQS Solutions, the focus remains on supporting clients to navigate this evolving landscape, helping projects move from concept to completion with confidence.
Get in touch with us today to find out more about how we can help.