With speculation continuing around Andy Burnham potentially becoming the UK’s next Prime Minister, attention is beginning to turn to what a Burnham-led government could mean for different sectors of the economy – including construction.
Much remains uncertain and any policy proposals would, of course, need to progress through Parliament before becoming reality. However, the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) has recently published its analysis of the possible implications for the built environment. Drawing on this, today’s blog explores five areas that construction businesses may wish to keep an eye on.
1. A renewed focus on social housing
One of the most widely discussed proposals is a significant increase in council housing delivery, with reports suggesting a target of 500,000 new social rent homes by the end of the decade. The emphasis here is specifically on creating new council homes, rather than affordable housing in the broader sense.
If delivered, a programme of this scale could create a substantial pipeline of work across the construction sector. Social housing developments often place a strong emphasis on quality, durability, energy efficiency and value for money, creating opportunities for contractors specialising in roofing, waterproofing and other key construction disciplines.
2. More decision-making at a local level
Another proposal is to give regional authorities greater responsibility for delivering housing within their own areas.
Rather than relying on a more centrally controlled approach, local and combined authorities could have increased flexibility over funding, procurement and development priorities.
For regional contractors, this could create new opportunities to build relationships with local authorities and participate in projects that are more closely aligned with local needs and priorities.
3. Changes to housing delivery
Reports have also suggested that a Burnham government may look to reshape how new housing is delivered across the country. By creating a network of regional public housing corporations capable of building at scale, the argument is that private developers would have to adapt their practices – particularly around the pace of delivery – in response to this new competition.
Supporters believe this could accelerate housing delivery and improve affordability, while critics question how such proposals would be funded and implemented in practice.
Whatever approach is ultimately taken, housing policy remains a major area of interest for the construction industry, particularly at a time when increasing housing supply continues to be a national priority.
4. Continued investment in sustainability
The transition towards lower-carbon buildings is also expected to remain firmly on the agenda, particularly if speculation that Ed Miliband could become Chancellor proves accurate. As a long-standing advocate of clean energy, he would be expected to continue championing policies that support the UK’s net zero ambitions.
Existing initiatives around renewable energy, home insulation, retrofit and energy efficiency are all likely to continue receiving attention, particularly if current proposals around clean energy and the Warm Homes Plan move forward.
For roofing contractors, this could mean growing opportunities linked to solar installations, insulation improvements, green roofing systems and wider sustainability-focused projects.
5. Greater emphasis on technical education
Addressing skills shortages has become a priority across construction, and proposals linked to technical education could help strengthen the future workforce.
Burnham has previously championed the Greater Manchester Baccalaureate (MBacc), promoting vocational education alongside traditional academic routes, and has spoken about expanding this type of approach nationally.
Alongside proposals for increased work placements for young people, this could help encourage more people to consider careers in construction and other skilled trades, supporting the industry’s long-term recruitment needs.
Final thoughts
While none of these proposals are guaranteed, they provide an interesting insight into the possible direction of travel should a Burnham government come to power.
Housing delivery, sustainability, regional investment and skills development have all become increasingly important issues for the construction sector in recent years. If these proposals progress, they could create both new opportunities and fresh challenges for businesses across the industry.
As always, Sheriff Construction will continue to monitor developments affecting the construction sector and share updates on the issues that matter to our clients, partners and supply chain.
What do you think?
Which of these potential policy areas do you think could have the biggest impact on the construction industry? We would love to hear your views – join the conversation with us on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages.
07.07.2026
Feature image: Magnific
