UK Construction Podcast

UK Construction Blog

Join us for your weekly deep dive into the beating heart of UK construction. From ground-breaking projects to game-changing innovations, the UK Construction Podcast brings you face-to-face with the industry's brightest minds and boldest thinkers. Each episode features candid conversations with construction leaders, architects, engineers, and on-site experts who share their hard-won insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. We cut through the noise to deliver actionable intelligence on market trends, emerging technologies, and the forces shaping British building. Whether you're a site manager in Scotland or a quantity surveyor in Cornwall, tune in for: Exclusive interviews with industry pioneersData-driven analysis of market trendsExpert breakdowns of major projectsPractical insights for construction professionals Hosted by: The UK Construction Blog Your essential companion for staying ahead in UK construction. Subscribe now and join the conversation shaping Britain's built environment. #UKConstruction #BuildingIndustry #ConstructionPodcast #UKConstructionBlog

  1. 2d ago

    How AI Is Changing Construction | Digital Twins, Data & the Future of Engineering

    AI is already changing the way construction and engineering work gets done. The question is no longer whether the technology is coming, but how the industry uses it without losing the experience and judgement that still sit with the people doing the work. On the UK Construction Podcast, host Jimmy Webb speaks with Nathan Marsh about where AI is making a difference across complex projects — from analysing huge volumes of project data to spotting risks, supply-chain problems and missed connections before they become expensive issues. Nathan Marsh is Regional Executive for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Bentley Systems. With engineering and contractor shortages putting more pressure on an already stretched industry, he explains why he sees AI as an assistant rather than a replacement for people. He also looks at digital twins, systems-based thinking and the need to treat roads, rail, water and power as connected parts of the same system. The discussion moves into real-world examples, including the Everton Stadium and Elizabeth Line, and how technology helped teams rehearse construction, manage logistics and bring different organisations together around a shared project. For Nathan, the real opportunity isn't simply having better technology. It's making that technology easier for people to use, giving teams better information when they need it, and making sure human judgement remains at the heart of important decisions. The result is a fascinating look at where construction technology is heading — and what that could mean for the people delivering the industry's biggest and most complex projects. 🌐 Learn more about Bentley Systems: https://www.bentley.com/ Nathan Marsh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-marsh-6320539/ ___________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our dynamic host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com ____________________________________________ Follow us for other industry updates, thought leadership, house building/DIY tips and the occasional crossword puzzle! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    How AI Is Changing Construction | Digital Twins, Data & the Future of Engineering
  2. Aug 5

    How to Start a Career as a Crane Operator in the UK with Tim Milligan

    The crane industry can offer exceptional earning potential, yet many people don't realise the opportunities it presents—or how to break into the profession. Tim Milligan, founder of Lift Tec Academy, shares how a chance move from labouring into lifting operations transformed his career, eventually leading him to build a training academy dedicated to helping others follow the same path. Speaking with Jimmy Webb, Tim discusses why crane operations remain one of construction's most rewarding career routes, what separates great operators from average ones, and why attitude often matters more than experience when employers are hiring. He also offers practical advice for anyone looking to secure their first role in the industry, explains the differences between crane training in the UK and the US, and reflects on the challenges of building a business from the ground up. Whether you're considering a career in lifting operations, looking to upskill, or simply interested in the people behind the industry's success stories, this episode of the UK Construction Podcast offers valuable insight into a career that many overlook. Topics covered: Why crane operations can be such a rewarding careerTim's journey from labourer to Lift Tec Academy founderHow to get started as a crane operatorThe mindset employers look forCrane training in the UK vs the USBuilding a successful training businessSupporting students beyond qualification🌐 Connect with Tim Milligan: https://www.instagram.com/thecranemanuk https://www.tiktok.com/@thecranemanuk 🌐 Lift Tec Academy website: https://www.lifttecacademy.co.uk/ ___________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our dynamic host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com ____________________________________________ Follow us for other industry updates, thought leadership, house building/DIY tips and the occasional crossword puzzle! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    How to Start a Career as a Crane Operator in the UK with Tim Milligan
  3. Jul 20

    Blanket Bans, IR35 & Hiring Contractors: What Construction Businesses Need to Know

    Most discussions around IR35 focus on tax. But the real impact is being felt in the way construction businesses hire, retain and work with contractors. Matt Williams from Clear North joins us on the UK Construction Podcast to unpack why so many firms are still getting IR35 wrong, how recent changes have shifted the conversation again, and why blanket bans may no longer be the safest option they once seemed. Along the way, they discuss the ongoing shortage of quantity surveyors, why some sectors are thriving while others continue to wait on planning approvals, and how businesses can build more resilient commercial teams without limiting their hiring options. Whether you're responsible for recruitment, commercial management or you're working as a contractor yourself, this conversation offers a practical look at what the latest changes could mean for you. Topics covered: Why IR35 is still widely misunderstoodThe latest changes affecting contractors and employersWhy blanket bans became common—and whether they still make senseThe growing demand for quantity surveyorsHow infrastructure, utilities and data centres are shaping the marketPractical advice for businesses engaging freelance professionals🌐 Learn more about Clear North: https://www.clearnorth.co.uk/ ___________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our dynamic host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com ____________________________________________ Follow us for other industry updates, thought leadership, house building/DIY tips and the occasional crossword puzzle! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    Blanket Bans, IR35 & Hiring Contractors: What Construction Businesses Need to Know
  4. Jun 29

    British Construction Expertise Is In Demand Across The Middle East | Marcus Siddons

    The Middle East has become one of the world's most ambitious construction markets, attracting global contractors, consultants, and investors with its mega projects, rapid growth, and long-term infrastructure plans. But behind the headlines is a market where success depends on far more than simply winning work. Marcus Siddons, Group Director at Baker Wilkins & Smith, joins Jimmy Webb to discuss the realities of delivering projects across Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC. Drawing on nearly 60 years of the company's experience in the region, Marcus explains why British construction professionals continue to be highly regarded, how long-term relationships shape opportunities, and why patience, trust, and disciplined risk management matter just as much as technical expertise. The conversation explores Saudi Arabia's giga projects, construction across the GCC, cost and risk management, procurement, cash flow, material price volatility, and the impact of regional conflict on project delivery. Marcus also shares what the UK construction industry can learn from the speed, ambition, and scale of development across the Middle East, while highlighting the challenges that often go unnoticed. Whether you're planning to expand into Saudi Arabia, already working in the GCC, or simply interested in the future of global construction, this episode of the UK Construction Podcast offers practical insights into one of the industry's most active and influential regions. ___________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our dynamic host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com ____________________________________________ Follow us for other industry updates, thought leadership, house building/DIY tips and the occasional crossword puzzle! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    British Construction Expertise Is In Demand Across The Middle East | Marcus Siddons
  5. May 29

    How Drones And AI Are Mapping Heat Loss Across Neighbourhoods in the UK

    1.8 homes per minute. That's how many homes need retrofitting between now and 2050 if the UK is going to meet its energy efficiency goals. The challenge isn't just carrying out the work. It's knowing where to start, which homes need attention first, and whether retrofit projects are actually delivering the results they're supposed to. Lucy Lyons, Co-Founder and CEO of Kestrix and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree in 2024, joins us on the UK Construction Podcast to explain how her company is using drones, thermal imaging, and AI to create what she describes as the "Google Maps of heat loss". By turning aerial data into detailed 3D models, the platform helps housing providers identify heat loss, prioritise investment, assess retrofit opportunities, and measure outcomes across thousands of properties. The conversation explores social housing, EPC assessments, retrofit funding, AI in construction, energy efficiency, and the role technology could play in helping the UK tackle one of its biggest infrastructure challenges. Connect with Lucy Lyons: Kestrix Website: https://www.kestrix.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-lyons/ ____________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our dynamic host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com ____________________________________________ Follow us for other industry updates, thought leadership, house building/DIY tips and the occasional crossword puzzle! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    How Drones And AI Are Mapping Heat Loss Across Neighbourhoods in the UK
  6. May 16

    Inclusive Personal Protective Equipment Is Changing Construction

    Jane Middleton and Charity Rose join the UK Construction Podcast to discuss the realities of inclusive PPE in construction, from oversized clothing and unsuitable footwear to pregnancy PPE, menopause, neurodiversity, and the wider issue of “standard” PPE not fitting the workforce it’s designed to protect. Recommended Inclusive PPE Products & Resources: Inclusive Hard Hats (smaller head sizes & braided hair compatibility) MSA Safety V-Gard rangeWomen’s Safety Boots Amblers Safety Women’s Footwear CollectionWomen’s Safety Wellington Boots Muck Boot Company – Women’s Muck Grit S5 Tall BootsSafety Footwear for Challenging Site Conditions Rock Fall – Hurricane Safety BootsSmaller Gloves & Safety Glasses uvex Women’s PPE RangeHijab-Compatible & Maternity PPE Accessories Leo Workwear Accessories & Jacket ExpandersWomen’s Stretch Cargo Trousers Leo EcoViz Stretch Cargo TrousersStretch Jogger-Style PPE Trousers Hawkridge Class 1 EcoViz Jog TrousersWomen’s Waterproof Hi-Vis Coat Leo Rosemoor Women’s Orange Waterproof Hi-Vis CoatInclusive PPE Supplier Directory PPE That Fits – Supplier DirectoryFurther Reading / Industry Initiative AtkinsRéalis Inclusive PPE Release____________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com ____________________________________________ Follow us on socials! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    Inclusive Personal Protective Equipment Is Changing Construction
  7. May 8

    Why So Many Men In Construction Suffer In Silence

    Mental health on-site is often acknowledged, but rarely understood in practice. This episode looks beyond policies to explore what is actually happening across construction sites, and why many of the warning signs go unnoticed. From long hours and pressure to conversations that rarely go beyond football, work, or a quick “you alright, mate?”, the discussion examines how many men in construction avoid speaking openly about what they’re really struggling with. It highlights how humour, banter, and carrying on as normal can often mask deeper issues, allowing addiction and mental health struggles to develop unnoticed over time. Craig Paton, Health, Safety and Wellbeing Director, MHFA specialist, and founder of Paton Safety Solutions Ltd, brings over 20 years of experience in construction. Having started as a labourer and later moving into health and safety following a fatal accident involving a close friend, Craig also speaks openly about his own experiences with addiction, recovery, and mental health. His perspective comes from both years spent in the industry and lived experience outside of it. Our conversation explores why many individuals struggle to speak up, how issues can develop unnoticed on site, and the role leadership plays in creating safer, more supportive environments. Craig also shares insight from his work delivering mental health training and keynote talks across the UK and Europe, highlighting practical ways to improve communication, recognise early signs, and better support people across all levels of the workforce. This episode of the UK Construction Podcast is a relevant watch for anyone working in construction, particularly those responsible for teams, safety, and site culture. Connect with Craig Paton: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigpaton1982/ Podcast: https://youtube.com/@constructivecomedypresents?si=IDNtscDd_CZoxVg9 ____________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our dynamic host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com ____________________________________________ Follow us for other industry updates, thought leadership, house building/DIY tips and the occasional crossword puzzle! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    Why So Many Men In Construction Suffer In Silence
  8. May 1

    "People First” Leadership Is Missing in Construction And It’s Costing You

    Construction doesn’t fail because of process alone — it fails when the people behind it are overlooked. This episode looks at how a People First approach to leadership is reshaping the way projects are delivered and teams are managed on site. Jonathan Cinelli brings decades of experience from within the construction industry, having worked as an electrician, led teams, and managed large-scale electrical projects. That experience now informs his approach to People First Leadership, a system built specifically for construction environments where performance, safety, and culture are closely linked. His discussion with host Jimmy Webb explores how leadership decisions on site influence trust, communication, and team dynamics, and why many of the challenges seen across projects can be traced back to how people are managed. It also looks at the impact of generational differences, the pressures placed on site leaders, and the role leadership plays in addressing mental health and retention across the workforce. Rather than relying on theory, the ideas shared are grounded in real site experience, with a focus on practical changes that can be applied across different levels of responsibility, from foremen and supervisors through to senior leadership. This episode of the UK Construction Podcast also touches on how structured support, coaching, and leadership development can help create more resilient teams, reduce unnecessary friction, and improve overall project outcomes without adding complexity to already demanding roles. Connect with Jonathan Cinelli: People First Leadership website: https://www.peoplefirstleadership.ca/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-cinelli-pmp-acc-103b841ba/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanacinelli/  ____________________________________________ 🚀 Watch, Like & Subscribe to our YT channel for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@UK_Construction_Blog 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode Thank you to our sponsor for this episode, WebMotion Media: https://web-motion.co.uk/ Special shoutout to our dynamic host Jimmy Webb of Construction Cogs: https://constructioncogs.com  ____________________________________________ Follow us for other industry updates, thought leadership, house building/DIY tips and the occasional crossword puzzle! ► Website: https://ukconstructionblog.co.uk ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-construction-blog ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uk.construction.blog ► X: https://x.com/UKCBlog ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UK.Construction.Blog ► Threads: https://www.threads.net/@uk.construction.blog ► Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ukconstructionblog.bsky.social

    "People First” Leadership Is Missing in Construction And It’s Costing You

About

Join us for your weekly deep dive into the beating heart of UK construction. From ground-breaking projects to game-changing innovations, the UK Construction Podcast brings you face-to-face with the industry's brightest minds and boldest thinkers. Each episode features candid conversations with construction leaders, architects, engineers, and on-site experts who share their hard-won insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. We cut through the noise to deliver actionable intelligence on market trends, emerging technologies, and the forces shaping British building. Whether you're a site manager in Scotland or a quantity surveyor in Cornwall, tune in for: Exclusive interviews with industry pioneersData-driven analysis of market trendsExpert breakdowns of major projectsPractical insights for construction professionals Hosted by: The UK Construction Blog Your essential companion for staying ahead in UK construction. Subscribe now and join the conversation shaping Britain's built environment. #UKConstruction #BuildingIndustry #ConstructionPodcast #UKConstructionBlog

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