SCAPE Insight Report: A Year of Change: Public Good, Public Building – What the Nation Needs Now

Local authorities and combined authorities need greater funding flexibility, stronger regional partners and targeted skills investment to meet government delivery targets, according to a new report released by public sector procurement specialist SCAPE.

Titled A Year of Change: Public Good, Public Building – What the Nation Needs Now, this report captures insights from local authorities, contractors and industry leaders across the UK. It draws on a year-long engagement tour focused on turning national policy into local delivery.

As part of the engagement tour, SCAPE published its Charter for Change in May 2024 – setting out a series of practical recommendations to improve delivery across the built environment. With several of these proposals now reflected in government policy, such as the reinstatement of the Chief Construction Advisor and the launch of a national upskilling programme, the report highlights SCAPE’s insight into the needs of the built environment sector, shaped by its work across both public and private sectors. The focus now turns to the next phase: supporting delivery. The report outlines the steps needed to translate policy into action through regional collaboration, targeted investment and streamlined procurement, ensuring the built environment delivers long-term value for communities across the country.

Despite regional differences, a consistent set of challenges has emerged across the UK, including the need for improved skills development, funding and social value delivery. Early collaboration between public and private sectors is seen as a key enabler, helping to improve efficiency, share knowledge and support community outcomes. Regional partnerships and devolved powers are also helping local authorities tailor development to their specific needs, while programme-based delivery models are improving project visibility and long-term employment outcomes.

The report highlights that while national goals are broadly aligned, regional disparities require more targeted responses. From green energy projects in Wales to transport infrastructure gaps in the East Midlands and Central South, each region faces distinct challenges. Improved communication between local and central government – including through dedicated liaison roles – could help ensure that local priorities are better reflected in national policy and funding decisions.

With construction now playing a central role in the UK’s economic strategy, attention is turning to delivery. National priorities, from infrastructure and green energy to housing, health and education, require region-specific strategies and early private sector involvement. Investment in green skills and greater funding control for local authorities are critical. The report also highlights the role of streamlined procurement, with SCAPE’s frameworks having saved the public sector £118 million via accelerated procurement over the past five years.

As SCAPE continues to work with local authorities and industry partners, the focus remains on supporting effective delivery. By aligning national ambitions with local needs and fostering collaboration across sectors, the report’s insights aim to support more consistent and sustainable outcomes for communities across the UK.