UK government launches major review of built environment professions

The ICE will respond to a new government call for evidence examining professions, trades and occupations across the built environment.

Launched by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on 20 May, the exercise forms part of the government’s wider programme of reform following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The call for evidence – which runs until 12 August – will inform the development of a long-term strategy for the built environment professions, due to be published in spring 2027.

A broad, system-wide review

The exercise is intended to gather information on how people and organisations operate across all stages of the building lifecycle.

Its focus is on the drivers of skills, behaviour, competence and accountability.

It is important to note that this is a call for evidence rather than a consultation. At this stage, the government is seeking insights and data rather than testing specific policy proposals.

Findings from the process will shape the direction of future policy, with more detailed proposals expected to follow as the strategy develops.

What is the ICE doing?

The ICE is already in dialogue with MHCLG, as well as other professional engineering institutions and the Engineering Council.

This engagement will help ensure that the civil and infrastructure engineering professions are well represented as the future strategy takes shape.

The ICE’s response will focus on key themes including skills, competence, professionalism and safety, building on the institution’s existing work and strategic priorities in these areas.

Supporting improved standards and safety

The call for evidence sits alongside a wider package of reforms aimed at improving safety and standards across the built environment.

These include proposals such as the Single Construction Regulator and ongoing changes linked to building safety and construction products.

Together, these initiatives intend to address fragmentation across the sector, strengthen accountability, and promote a more consistent safety culture.

Why this matters for members

This work could have wide-ranging implications for the engineering profession and the wider built environment sector.

The development of a new professions strategy has the potential to influence how roles are defined, how competence is assessed, and how accountability is embedded across the system.

By engaging early, the ICE aims to help ensure that the views and expertise of civil and infrastructure engineers are reflected in the emerging direction of policy.

Further information on the call for evidence and how members can respond is available on the UK government website.