Last week, our Construction Director, John Boys, attended the Poole Dick Question Time Breakfast Special at Manchester Hall, joining a room of industry leaders, decision-makers, and professionals all focused on one central question:

How can the North West deliver its Blueprint for Growth?

With a strong and experienced panel featuring Rachel Poole, Michele Steel, Stewart Grant, Angela Mansell FCIOB, and Peter Bartley, the discussion provided valuable insight into both the progress the region has made – and the challenges that still lie ahead.

There was a clear and shared recognition across the room: while the North West continues to outperform the UK average in key areas, there remain real and pressing barriers that must be addressed to sustain and accelerate that growth.

The conversation was shaped around six key priorities that will define the future of the sector:

  • Turbocharging housing delivery to meet rising demand
  • Tackling the 2030 labour peak, ensuring the industry has the skilled workforce it needs
  • Embracing technology and modern methods of construction (MMC) to improve efficiency and innovation
  • Enabling the retrofit revolution as sustainability and existing housing stock become increasingly important
  • Simplifying the planning system to unlock stalled development
  • Joining up infrastructure to support long-term, strategic growth across the region

For B&E Boys, being part of these conversations is not just important, it’s essential. As a long-established, family-rooted business operating across the North West, we experience first-hand the realities behind these topics, from workforce challenges to evolving project demands.

Engaging in discussions like this allows us to stay connected to the bigger picture – sharing perspectives, learning from others across the sector, and contributing to the collective effort needed to move the industry forward.

We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to Poole Dick for hosting such a well-curated and thought-provoking event, and to all the panelists for their openness, insight, and leadership. Creating space for honest, solution-focused dialogue is vital if we are to overcome the barriers identified and unlock the full potential of our region.

The future of the North West’s built environment depends on collaboration, innovation, and clear direction, and events like this play a crucial role in bringing those elements together. B&E Boys are proud to be part of that ongoing conversation and remain committed to supporting the region’s growth, both on the ground and at the table.