Built Environment as key to solving country’s productivity conundrum

Former Director-General of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Lord Digby Jones has cited the UK’s Built Environment priorities of housing and infrastructure as key to solving the country’s productivity conundrum, providing the younger generation with homes and jobs to deliver economic growth for the country.

Speaking at the launch of the Built Environment Communications Group (becg), Lord Jones said “With our growth forecasts dropping and productivity remaining stubbornly low, housing and infrastructure, alongside skills, are the vital economic drivers as we navigate through Brexit. Our next generation needs Parliament to unite its focus on their future for the sake of the country’s prosperity.”

Lord Jones’ comments were made at the launch event of becg, the UK’s largest specialist communications agency for the Built Environment. Formed from the rebrand and repositioning of the Remarkable Group and incorporating the heritage, expertise and team from specialist property communications agency HardHat, becg will have a 90-strong national team across eight UK offices. This has created one brand, with a clear mission to deliver expert counsel and multi-disciplinary communications services for the Built Environment sectors.

Reflecting Lord Jones’ comments, becg chief executive Stephen Pomeroy said: “Our Built Environment impacts on every aspect of our lives. For our country to succeed we need a better Built Environment that supports our economic growth and provides the foundation for society to thrive. Our next generation is at the heart of this – giving them the homes and jobs they need to help our economy flourish.

“We know that this success can be hindered by national and regional policy, media misunderstanding and barriers and delays to planning and development – there is no quick fix, but effective and expert communication has a clear role in helping to resolve the frustrations and ensure quality and quantity. Working together across public and private sector, we can address the challenge of delivering a better Built Environment.

“In becg, we have created a UK market leader to advise those who are deliverers of our evolving Built Environment. As a multidisciplinary agency we will continue to provide expert advice with unrivalled national, regional and local networks to provide our clients with solutions that deliver commercial value, maximise opportunities and reduce risk.

“Too often, crucial Built Environment projects can be delayed due to a lack of understanding of the benefits they can bring to individuals, communities and the wider economy. At becg we are dedicated to communicating the vision of our clients as they shape a better Built Environment, and to genuinely engage with government, media and stakeholder communities.”

becg’s client base spans all aspects of the Built Environment, with residential and commercial property – including land acquisition, development and housebuilding; energy and environment – including energy generation and supply, recycling and waste management; and infrastructure – including transport, health, education and retail.

To find out more about becg and its specialist communications offering for the Built Environment, visit: www.becg.com.