Civils contractors have published a major new report on the current and future role of artificial intelligence in UK construction sector.
The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA)’s AI in UK Construction Report, now available to download, sets out clear recommendations on managing risk, fostering cross-industry collaboration, and upskilling the workforce for a digital future.
The report offers both optimism and caution, recognising the immense benefits of AI – such as better design optimisation, improved safety, and faster delivery – while also addressing risks including over-reliance on technology, cybersecurity threats, and ethical concerns.
Commending, CECA chief executive Alasdair Reisner said: “The UK construction industry is on the cusp of a digital transformation, and artificial intelligence is the next leap forward.
“Our new report seeks to guide our members and the wider sector in how to embrace AI safely, ethically, and effectively. AI has the potential to benefit contractors of all sizes, from optimising the planning system for major projects, to enabling SMEs to boost business efficiency – all of which ultimately benefits the UK economy and taxpayer.
“This isn’t about hype – it’s about helping businesses in the UK construction sector ask the right questions, make the right investments, and upskill the workforce. AI should support human decision-making, not replace it. Our industry’s values must remain at the heart of any technological change.
“The adoption of AI in construction will lead to better outcomes for clients, communities, and businesses across the UK – boosting productivity, creating jobs, and driving economic growth through project delivery.”
The report outlines ten key recommendations:
Managing Risk
- Promote the use of existing AI standards
- Undertake a construction-specific AI risk review to address unique industry challenges.
- Explore the development of a confidential reporting system for AI-related risks.
Cross-Industry Collaboration
- Support and engage with existing sector initiatives
- Create or support the formation of a construction AI community to share knowledge and drive best practice
- Develop a coordinated construction sector AI implementation plan.
Training and Skills Development
- Signpost existing AI training resources more widely across the industry.
- Develop role-specific AI training tailored to different functions within construction.
- Introduce training focused on AI security, ethical use, and risk awareness.
- Integrate AI into professional development frameworks and CPD pathways.
The report’s publication follows on from CECA’s first-ever Artificial Intelligence in Construction Conference, held in London on 26 March 2025.
Hosted at Salisbury House and attended by more than 80 delegates, including representatives of over 30 CECA members companies, the one-day event showcased the transformative role AI is beginning to play across the industry – from project planning and design, to safety, commercial management, and workforce development.
With the adoption of AI across UK construction and infrastructure gathering pace, CECA’s recommendations aim to accelerate uptake and position its members at the cutting edge of technological transformation, while ensuring responsible governance and management of risk.
To download CECA’s AI in UK Construction report, click here.