One

The built environment is the UK’s largest economic sector.

Together, our sector contributes:

25% of UK GVA
1 in 8 jobs
£168bn in exports
A greater economic contribution than the financial services sector

Yet despite its scale and impact, the built environment is not recognised by government as a single economic sector. As a result, policy, regulation and decision-making remain fragmented across departments — slowing investment, reducing productivity and limiting growth.

Recognising the built environment as one sector would help:

align policy across housing, infrastructure, planning, skills, transport, energy and investment
unlock growth and support the delivery of the government’s national missions
strengthen productivity, investment and long-term economic resilience
support the delivery of skills and workforce development across the sector

NLA is launching the One Built Environment campaign to bring together everyone who plans, funds, designs, builds and operates the places that shape our lives — and to call on government to formally recognise the built environment within the Industrial Strategy.

We are asking organisations across the sector to support the campaign and help make the case to government for change.

How to support the campaign

Join us at UKREiiF as we launch the campaign
Share the campaign across your channels
Add the One Built Environment logo to your website, email signature or marketing materials
Encourage colleagues, partners and clients to support the campaign

Event

One Built Environment Campaign Launch

20 May 2026

Free

One Built Environment Asset Pack

Share the campaign, add the logo to your website and social media, share the briefing notes with your senior leadership team and help us to champion our great sector.