Could Demand For Formwork Increase With UK Infrastructure Projects?

Steel formwork is an essential component of any large-scale construction project and it’s often required for not only buildings, but also structures like bridges or tunnels. 

As you’ll know, it can take time for large infrastructure projects to get the greenlight in the UK. However, since the final quarter of 2024, the UK government has given the go-ahead to 21 major infrastructure projects as part of its bid to get “Britain building”. 

Among the projects that have been approved so far in this parliament are the expansion of Gatwick Airport, the Lower Thames Crossing and the Simister Island project to improve the motorway junction where the M60, M62 and M66 merge just outside Manchester. 

The Lower Thames Crossing, meanwhile, is an ambitious project to dig a new tunnel beneath the iconic river that flows through London. It will connect the city with Kent and Essex and is designed to ease congestion.

Once it’s up and running, it will nearly double the road capacity for those travelling over the river into the east of London. 

All of these projects, along with a number of others, are part of the government’s infrastructure pipeline, which has been created to provide those in the construction industry with the opportunity to see what projects are set to get underway in the coming years. 

With greater visibility of the potential infrastructure projects, it’s hoped that those working in this part of the construction industry will feel more secure when it comes to their businesses and their jobs. 

Given the durability and strength of reinforced concrete, which makes it an essential component of many structures, it’s highly likely that the skills of an experienced formwork company will be in demand in the coming years as these projects break ground.

These announcements come hand in hand with the unveiling of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which has been produced to help construction firms start building with less red tape standing in their way.