Construction is routinely looked to as a marker for the economic health of a city or region. Our Real Estate Regional Crane Surveys highlight this link between development and prosperity, examining the external influences and key market drivers of city centre construction.
Belfast
Belfast has seen the fruit of the Belfast City Region Deal with two new leading-edge R&D developments signalling the city’s intent in terms of innovation, skills and talent. Like most other cities, it has seen limited recent office development. Residential development is anchored in one large scheme due to complete in 2026, with many watching to see if this will trigger new momentum.
Birmingham’s Crane Survey 2026 charts development activity across the city in 2025, providing a comprehensive overview of key statistics and thematic analysis across the residential, student residential, office, hotel, retail, education, and healthcare sectors. This year, we observe signs of a resilient construction sector, with development activity increasing compared to the previous year, signalling a positive shift.
Leeds is strategically positioning itself for a new era of growth, driven by Government support and a new Economic Vision. The Crane Survey highlights robust residential and student accommodation development, despite broader market uncertainties. The city continues to foster innovation in digital, AI, and health, while major regeneration projects like the South Bank's 'New Town' and enhanced connectivity are boosting its global appeal. This integrated approach is driving innovative, inclusive, and internationally attractive growth across the city.
Greater Manchester’s economy has exceeded £100 billion, growing 28% since 2015 and outpacing the UK average. Strategic forms of investment are driving current and future economic growth within a range of commercial development sectors, aligning with demonstrable rapid population growth. For example, 458,000 sq. ft. of education and health space under construction, reinforcing Manchester’s status as a global hub for science, technology, and talent.
