Yorkshire Construction Activity 2025: Infrastructure Boom Drives Regional Growth
Construction News
Positive Outlook for the East Midlands Construction Sector - Driven By Private Housing Boom
The East Midlands construction market saw a sharp increase in project activity during the first quarter of 2025, according to recent industry data. This surge in starts and approvals is a positive sign for construction developers and contractors as it signals a dynamic and growing jobs market.
As a leading East Midlands construction recruitment agency, Atkins Search is closely monitoring how this market shift impacts demand for skilled professionals across sectors including infrastructure, housing, industrial, and consultancy services.
Construction Activity by Sector: Project Starts in Q1 2025
The table below summarises the value of construction project starts in the East Midlands from January to April 2025:
| Sector | Value of Project Starts (£m) | Change from Previous Year | Change on Two Years Ago | % Share |
| Private Housing | 1,274 | 91% | 63% | 47% |
| Industrial | 698 | 587% | 936% | 26% |
| Community & Amenity | 349 | 366% | 419% | 13% |
| Health | 109 | 263% | 98% | 4% |
| Infrastructure | 71 | -6% | -74% | 3% |
| Social Housing | 61 | 162% | -72% | 2% |
| Education | 51 | -69% | -30% | 2% |
| Offices | 27 | -31% | -60% | 1% |
| Retail | 20 | -56% | -25% | 1% |
| Utilities | 18 | -69% | -78% | 1% |
| Hotel & Leisure | 16 | -60% | -58% | 1% |
| Total | 2,695 | 104% | 54% |
The strongest growth was seen in industrial and community & amenity projects, showing exceptional year-on-year performance and reflecting a sustained demand for logistics and manufacturing space.
A review of major contract awards from April 2024 to April 2025 reveals the top construction companies leading the charge in the East Midlands:
- TSL Projects: Secured a £270 million project, marking the highest value contract in the region.
- Balfour Beatty: Awarded a £211 million contract, reinforcing its strong presence.
- Winvic: Continues its robust performance with two projects totalling £114 million, including a significant £84 million scheme at Magna Park, Lutterworth.
- Glencar Construction: Appointed for a £72.6 million logistics facility in Grantham, showcasing its capabilities in delivering large-scale projects.
These substantial contracts reflect the region’s focus on logistics and advanced manufacturing, sectors that are driving demand for high-specification, energy-efficient developments.
Sector Analysis: Detailed Planning Approvals
Detailed planning approvals in Q1 2025 reveal future areas of opportunity for contractors and professionals alike:
| Sector | Value of Project Approvals (£m) | Change from Previous Year | Change on Two Years Ago | % Share |
| Utilities | 2,074 | 422% | 9,670% | 67% |
| Private Housing | 559 | -30% | -40% | 18% |
| Industrial | 169 | -51% | 45% | 5% |
| Hotel & Leisure | 89 | 252% | 26% | 3% |
| Social Housing | 58 | 53% | -88% | 2% |
| Infrastructure | 53 | 70% | 160% | 2% |
| Offices | 42 | -4% | -36% | 1% |
| Education | 30 | -55% | -76% | 1% |
| Health | 20 | -78% | -44% | 1% |
| Retail | 8 | -72% | -83% | 0% |
| Community & Amenity | 1 | -86% | -98% | 0% |
| Total | 3,104 | 66% | 58% |
Utility sector approvals soared to £2.07bn, accounting for 67% of total approvals, indicating significant investment in energy and infrastructure.
Construction Start Forecasts – East Midlands (2023-2026)
| Quarter | Project Starts (£m) | Change from Previous Year |
| Q1 2023 | 1,535 | -14% |
| Q2 2023 | 1,340 | -16% |
| Q3 2023 | 1,385 | -13% |
| Q4 2023 | 1,036 | -15% |
| Q1 2024 | 1,323 | -14% |
| Q2 2024 | 1,409 | +5% |
| Q3 2024 | 1,320 | -5% |
| Q4 2024 | 1,259 | +22% |
| Q1 2025 (actual) | 1,535 | +16% |
| Q2 2025 (forecast) | 1,376 | -2% |
| Q3 2025 (forecast) | 1,187 | -10% |
| Q4 2025 (forecast) | 1,159 | -8% |
| Q1 2026 (forecast) | 1,741 | +13% |
| Q2 2026 (forecast) | 1,826 | +33% |
| Q3 2026 (forecast) | 1,764 | +49% |
| Q4 2026 (forecast) | 1,600 | +38% |
What This Means for Construction Recruitment in the East Midlands
With private and industrial construction booming, the demand for skilled professionals continues to rise. This is especially prevalent in project management, quantity surveying, and design & technical roles.
Atkins Search is actively recruiting for a wide range of positions aligned with this growth, including:
- Freelance project managers for logistics and warehouse builds
- Design managers and planners for upcoming utilities projects
- Commercial professionals with experience in infrastructure and housing
Outlook for the Year Ahead
With Government industrial schemes dominating regional approvals and several large-scale developments underway, the East Midlands construction sector is poised for a busy year ahead. Firms with proven capabilities in housing, property, development, fit out and construction services will position you well to secure further opportunities. Additionally, construction firms with expertise in construction asset management, cost and commercial management, project management and sustainability will secure you the top opportunities.
The combination of sustained demand, significant investment, and a strong project pipeline suggests a positive outlook for contractors, developers, and their supply chains in 2025 and beyond.
Atkins Search: Your Recruitment Partner in Construction
The East Midlands continues to be a powerhouse for UK construction, and the coming year offers incredible opportunities for professionals across all sectors. Partnering with a recruitment agency that understands the local market gives you the insight and access needed to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
At Atkins Search Recruitment, we specialise in connecting top talent with leading construction companies across the East Midlands. Our deep understanding of the regional market and strong industry relationships enable us to provide tailored recruitment solutions that meet the evolving needs of the construction sector.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Construction East Midlands
1. What is driving the growth of the Construction East Midlands market in 2025?
The growth of the Construction East Midlands market in 2025 is driven by a significant increase in project starts and approvals. Key sectors such as industrial, private housing, and community & amenity projects have seen substantial growth. The region’s focus on logistics, advanced manufacturing, and energy-efficient developments is creating a robust demand for skilled professionals in various construction roles.
2. Which sectors are experiencing the most growth in the Construction East Midlands market?
In the Construction East Midlands market, the industrial sector has experienced the most remarkable growth, with a 587% increase in project starts year-on-year. The community and amenity sectors also saw a significant rise, reflecting demand for infrastructure projects. Additionally, private housing continues to dominate the market share, contributing to a booming construction industry.
3. How is Atkins Search supporting recruitment in the Construction East Midlands sector?
Atkins Search is dedicated to connecting top talent with leading construction companies in the East Midlands. As the region’s construction market grows, we are actively recruiting for key roles such as freelance project managers, design managers for utilities projects, and commercial professionals with expertise in infrastructure and housing. Our recruitment solutions are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the region’s construction industry.
4. What types of roles are in high demand in the Construction East Midlands market?
Roles in high demand within the Construction East Midlands market include project management, quantity surveying, design & technical roles, and commercial positions. As the construction sector continues to expand, the need for skilled professionals to manage and deliver projects on time is more critical than ever. Atkins Search is recruiting for a variety of positions across multiple sectors to support this growth.
5. Which companies are leading the Construction East Midlands market?
Some of the leading construction companies in the East Midlands include TSL Projects, Balfour Beatty, Winvic, and Glencar Construction. These companies are securing large-scale contracts, particularly in sectors such as logistics, advanced manufacturing, and infrastructure, further fueling the demand for skilled professionals in the construction industry.
6. How can I find construction job opportunities in the East Midlands?
Atkins Search is your trusted recruitment partner for finding construction job opportunities in the East Midlands. With a deep understanding of the local market, we offer tailored recruitment services to match candidates with the best roles in the region. Visit our website or contact one of our experienced consultants to explore the latest job openings in the growing Construction East Midlands sector.
7. What does the future hold for Construction East Midlands in 2025 and beyond?
The Construction East Midlands market is expected to remain dynamic and grow through 2025 and beyond. With large-scale projects underway, particularly in housing, infrastructure, and logistics, the demand for skilled construction professionals will continue to rise. The combination of sustained investment and a strong project pipeline ensures a positive outlook for contractors, developers, and professionals in the region.
8. Why should I work with Atkins Search for my construction career in the East Midlands?
Atkins Search offers in-depth knowledge of the East Midlands construction market, allowing us to provide tailored recruitment solutions that align with your career goals. Whether you are looking to advance your career or seeking top talent for your construction team, partnering with Atkins Search ensures you have access to the best opportunities and expertise in the region’s growing market.
