The King’s Speech: Opportunities in Construction and the Role of Digital Marketing

The recent King’s Speech has unveiled ambitious plans for economic growth and job creation by the new, Labour government, presenting significant opportunities for the construction industry. The government’s commitment to “build more housing and infrastructure” through 35 forthcoming bills could mark the most substantial boost to the sector in generations. As a digital agency that works with several businesses in the sector, we have looked at what this might mean and how digital marketing can help.

Legislative Highlights and Their Implications

The King’s Speech outlined key areas of focus, including planning and infrastructure, high-speed rail, a new industrial strategy council, employment rights, and apprenticeship levy reform. For businesses in the built environment, these legislative changes promise a more streamlined and supportive environment.

Planning and Infrastructure: The proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to simplify the delivery process for critical infrastructure and major projects. This includes new National Policy Statements on infrastructure, reform of compulsory purchase compensation rules, and increased capacity for local planning authorities. Such reforms are designed to accelerate high-quality infrastructure and housing delivery.

Digital Marketing Insight: As these legislative changes take effect, businesses in the construction sector will need to communicate their capabilities and successes effectively. Digital marketing, particularly SEO and content marketing, can play a crucial role in highlighting compliance with new regulations and showcasing completed projects.

Addressing Housing Needs

Driving up housing output is a central aim of the government’s plan. However, the type of housing built is equally important. Solutions must include independent living developments and age-friendly public infrastructure to encourage older residents to move from family homes.

Digital Marketing Insight: Through targeted PPC campaigns and informative content marketing, companies can raise awareness about new housing projects, especially those that cater to specific demographics. Highlighting unique selling points and compliance with the latest standards can attract the right audience and stakeholders.

Embracing the Golden Thread

The construction industry is also preparing for the findings and recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. The anticipated legislation will likely evolve the Hackitt recommendations, ensuring that safety standards are maintained from the architect’s desk to project handover.

Digital Marketing Insight: Demonstrating adherence to these changing standards through case studies, blog posts, and digital PR can build trust and credibility. Companies that proactively showcase their commitment to safety will be better positioned to secure new contracts and partnerships.

Devolution and Local Growth

Devolution is set to be a key driver of growth, with metro mayors empowered to support local growth plans. The government aims to foster collaboration among local authorities to identify and address regional infrastructure needs.

Digital Marketing Insight: Local SEO and geo-targeted advertising can help businesses connect with regional stakeholders and communities. Promoting local projects and initiatives can enhance visibility and engagement, making winning support and contracts at the local level easier.

Skills Development and Employment Rights

The government’s new industrial strategy council and reforms to the apprenticeship levy are expected to drive up construction apprenticeship numbers, addressing the current skills shortage in the industry. Employment rights legislation will also bring changes, including equal pay, zero-hour bans, and new statutory rights for sick pay.

Digital Marketing Insight: Effective content marketing and digital PR can help businesses highlight their commitment to skills development and fair employment practices. Sharing success stories of apprenticeships and workforce development initiatives can enhance a company’s reputation as an employer of choice.

Leveraging Digital Marketing for Growth

In summary, the legislative changes proposed in the King’s Speech offer significant growth opportunities for the built environment. However, to fully capitalise on these opportunities, businesses need to communicate their strengths and compliance with new regulations effectively.

“As the owner of a UK digital marketing agency that specialises in SEO, PPC, content marketing, and digital PR, we believe that strategic digital marketing is essential for businesses in the construction sector. Our goal is to help these companies navigate the changes, reach their target audience, and highlight their contributions to the nation’s growth. By leveraging the right digital marketing strategies, firms can not only stand out in a competitive market but also drive meaningful engagement and growth.”

Through honest, straightforward, and helpful digital marketing efforts, businesses in the built environment can showcase their innovations, comply with new regulations, and ultimately contribute to building a better future.

If you’d like to chat about how we can help your business, please drop us a line.