The Construction Crisis: Rising Costs & Future Solutions - Alex Hurn - EP13

SQ.FT Stories welcomes Alex Hurn, the CEO of Horde Group and a leader in building surveying, project management, and property development. With a strong background in building surveying and project management, Alex has worked on a wide range of high-value developments, overseeing projects from inception to completion. His expertise spans feasibility studies, planning, and risk management, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and profitably. Alongside this, Alex is actively involved in high GDV property deals, giving him a unique perspective on the commercial realities of development in today’s volatile market. In this episode, Alex shares his perspective on the rising costs of labour and materials and how these challenges are impacting construction projects across the UK. We also discuss the future of construction—how technology, innovation, and new methods of building could shape the industry in the years to come. Something that was intriguing from a host’s perspective was Alex’s view on the recent turmoil in the industry, including ISG’s administration and Vistry’s profit warnings. His insights into how major industry shifts impact contractors, developers, and clients alike highlight the importance of resilience and adaptability in today’s market. We explore: - The challenges of rising labour and material costs in construction. - How market uncertainty is affecting project viability and investment decisions. - The future of construction and how new approaches may reshape the industry. - The relationship between main contractors and subcontractors—common issues and how they can be avoided. Whether you’re in construction, property development, or simply interested in the forces shaping the built environment, this episode is packed with insights on where the industry is headed. Tune in to hear Alex’s expert take on navigating today’s construction challenges and what the future might hold.