Insights

Featuring insight from industry leaders at the UK’s leading property developers, housebuilders, REITs, and investment firms, The Development Index 2026 is an all-encompassing appraisal of what’s happening across the development lifecycle now, and what employers and employees within it need to know going into 2026 and beyond.

New research reveals that the UK development industry is entering 2026 with cautious optimism but is still held back by deep-rooted staffing challenges that are slowing delivery and squeezing project viability. The Development Index – produced by real estate and construction hiring specialist, Cobalt Recruitment – captures the current challenges, along with the opportunities and pressures shaping the year ahead.

First came the Northern Powerhouse, then the Levelling Up agenda – and now we have The Great North. Here we explore how changes in policies have shaped the built environment, what they'll mean for the sector over the next decade, and what skills are in-demand and where across the property lifecycle as a result of them.

There’s a scarcity of talent available at the moment in the construction and development space, so how can you attract the best talent in a timely manner that doesn't damage your brand? Find out here.

While planning, projects, and partnerships were standout themes of UKREiiF 2025, people emerged as a fourth, equally crucial pillar, as without the right people, progress in any of the other three areas is limited. See the skills most in-demand from our conversations and the talks at UKREiiF 2025.

From large-scale infrastructure to local regeneration schemes, the energy at UKREiiF 2025 reflected a shift in sentiment. See our roundup of how the common themes from it - planning, projects, partnerships and people, will form the backbone of growth in UK real estate over the coming years.

Following increased investment into the UK and the acquisition of sites, HOH got in touch with Cobalt to search and select a Delivery Development Manager to join their close-knit UK team in London.

Celebrating those pushing the needle within construction, and looking at what we can do to advance the prospects for women in the industry, Construction recruitment specialist Ashleigh Pearce delves into the topic with insights from those working in the space.

See our case study recruiting for a Senior Quantity Surveyor on behalf of Big Mamma Group.

​UKREiiF this year underscored the transformative potential of renewable energy, highlighting its importance for the planet and the professional opportunities available within it in the real estate sector. See our insights from it.

Construction is a competitive space, especially in the war for talent when the sector is on the verge of growth. See how your organisation can get ahead of the competition to secure the brightest talent.

Community development key to BTR and PRS growth, sustainability and green shoots for investment and job opportunities - insights from UKREiiF 2023.