Bridging Gaps in Construction | Episode 114

Construction Disrupted Episode 114 - Bridging Gaps in Construction (06.05.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.In this episode, we discuss the resurgence of regeneration under new models, to the rise of AI-assisted dispute resolution, and the launch of a marketplace for steel reuse in bridge works - yes, that's right, marketplace for steel reuse in bridge works. We cover is all on this podcast. Let's go!Regeneration is back - but under a very different model: What the first three months of Regen Connect revealRegeneration in the UK is experiencing a revival, with billions in public investment and a move toward decentralised, place-led decision-making. Regional mayors and local authorities now have greater control, and major cities like London, Birmingham, and Bristol are leading ambitious projects.While optimism is high, delivery remains complex due to market conditions and policy changes. The sector is adapting to new funding streams and long-term investment, but each region faces unique challenges and opportunities as regeneration becomes more locally driven.AI-Assisted adjudication nearsThe UK construction sector is preparing for AI-assisted adjudication, inspired by models in the US. The process, which is typically paper-based and fast-paced, is well suited for AI tools that can quickly analyse documents and draft preliminary findings. Human adjudicators remain responsible for final decisions, ensuring fairness and accountability.While AI promises greater efficiency, challenges around data availability, confidentiality, and legal compliance must be addressed. The sector is cautiously embracing AI, with best-practice guidance and staged integration to maintain trust and integrity.New online marketplace launches to facilitate steel reuse in bridge worksExpedition Engineering and Format Engineers have launched Re-Bridge, an online platform that connects asset owners and engineers to surplus bridge elements for reuse. This marketplace aims to reduce embodied carbon, cut costs, and promote a circular economy by making it easier to match redundant components with new projects.Re-Bridge builds on research into practical reuse pathways and addresses barriers like certification and procurement. By improving visibility and collaboration, the platform is helping redefine waste as a resource and encouraging more sustainable infrastructure practices.BiosRyan Jones - SLG AgencyFor almost 20 years, Ryan’s focus has been on helping brands in the construction and manufacturing sectors tell their story.His career began in PR, working for global businesses across a variety of sectors, before opting to focus on construction and the built environment.In his role as Managing Director, Ryan works to ensure that SLG Agency continues to be one of the construction industry's leading specialist strategic and creative agencies, having seen its work recognised by the likes of Campaign, Marketing Week and The Drum in recent years.Ryan is regularly asked to speak at trade shows and events, and to contribute thought leadership pieces to trade media. He is also a member of several industry advisory boards, including Constructing Excellence and the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.His passion for the construction sector has seen him work with clients on CSR campaigns that tackle the sector’s public perception, culminating in him recently launching a not-for-profit called Deconstruction.Peter Sumpton - buildDifferentPeter is a construction–marketing strategist and co-host of Construction Disrupted. With two decades’ experience spanning manufacturers, contractors and agencies, he helps organisations swap scattergun activity for clear strategy, joined-up planning and measurable outcomes.His approach is practical and plain-spoken: cut the noise, focus on what moves the numbers, and build repeatable systems that teams can actually use.Having seen first-hand how unfocused tactics waste time and budget, Peter works with leaders to align commercial goals, customer insight and content so marketing supports delivery rather than distracting from it.Peter's passion lies in diagnosing organisations' marketing functions' capabilities and existing market, assembling what’s required to create a functional strategy, fit for purpose and scalable.Marketing should create value, not just cost, and Peter’s work is about making that the norm.