Episode
Are Robot Dogs the Answer? | Episode 102
- Podcast
- Construction Disrupted
- Published
- Feb 11, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1823
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://www.builddifferent.marketing/
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Summary
Construction Disrupted Episode 102 - Are Robot Dogs the Answer? (11.02.26) From rising costs in the UK construction sector to the impact of data center growth on labor markets, and even the futuristic use of robot dogs in nuclear decommissioning, we’ve got a fascinating lineup of topics to discuss. UK Construction Costs Set to Rise by 3.6% as Uncertainty Stalls Development, Says Currie & Brown Consultancy firm Currie & Brown has forecasted a 3.6% rise in UK construction costs for 2026, surpassing the global average of 2.4%. This increase reflects moderate growth amidst market uncertainties. Contributing factors include steady demand across infrastructure, healthcare, technology, and industrial sectors, alongside challenges such as a shrinking workforce, shifting trade tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and energy price volatility. The report highlights the importance of agility in navigating these challenges. Recommendations for mitigating cost risks include setting realistic starting points, planning for multiple outcomes, adjusting project scope based on labor and market capacity, and leveraging technology to improve decision-making processes. Data Centre Drain Ramps-Up M&E Labour Costs The construction boom in London’s data center sector is driving up labor costs for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) workers. The latest London Main Contractor Survey by AECOM reveals that the rapid expansion of data centers has led to acute shortages of skilled tradespeople, forcing contractors to compete for a limited pool of high-quality subcontractors. This competition has resulted in significant increases in labor prices. To address these challenges, some contractors are creating in-house MEP divisions to manage their projects more effectively. While short-te…