---
title: UK construction contractors media reputation tracker – August 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Construction Contractors
period: August 2026
coverage_start: '2026-08-01'
coverage_end: '2026-08-31'
date_published: '2026-09-01'
last_updated: '2026-09-01'
organisations: 10
articles_analysed: 821
mentions: 335
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/data.json
summary: Balfour Beatty had the highest average monthly share of coverage (27.5%)
  among 10 contractors in UK earned media from 1 August 2026 to 31 August 2026, ahead
  of Kier Group (15.5%) and Morgan Sindall (15.2%).
---

# UK construction contractors media reputation tracker: August 2026 (1 August 2026–31 August 2026)

> Balfour Beatty had the highest average monthly share of coverage (27.5%) among 10 contractors in UK earned media from 1 August 2026 to 31 August 2026, ahead of Kier Group (15.5%) and Morgan Sindall (15.2%). Kier Group had the most favourable net tone (+79). Omniscan analysed 821 articles containing 335 mentions of the contractors tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08

## UK Construction Contractors ranking by share of coverage, August 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Balfour Beatty | 27.5% | 92 | 81% | 16% | 3% | +77 |
| 2 | Kier Group | 15.5% | 52 | 81% | 17% | 2% | +79 |
| 3 | Morgan Sindall | 15.2% | 51 | 67% | 29% | 4% | +63 |
| 4 | Costain | 10.1% | 34 | 76% | 24% | 0% | +76 |
| 5 | Galliford Try | 6.9% | 23 | 61% | 13% | 26% | +35 |
| 5 | Sir Robert McAlpine | 6.9% | 23 | 82% | 9% | 9% | +74 |
| 7 | Mace | 5.7% | 19 | 26% | 69% | 5% | +21 |
| 8 | Laing O'Rourke | 4.5% | 15 | 73% | 14% | 13% | +60 |
| 8 | Skanska UK | 4.5% | 15 | 40% | 60% | 0% | +40 |
| 10 | Wates | 3.3% | 11 | 73% | 18% | 9% | +64 |

## Contractors in detail

### Balfour Beatty

**Balfour Beatty leads despite sharp monthly swings**

Balfour Beatty ranked 1st of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (27.5%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 92 mentions and a net tone of +77.

In August 2026, Balfour Beatty recorded 92 mentions, 27.5% of cohort coverage and rank #1, with net sentiment of +77. Coverage focused on Financial Results & Trading. August 2026: volume rose by 32 to 92, share increased 14.1 points to 27.5% and rank moved from third to first; stories included first-half growth and upgraded earnings and cash guidance. August 2026: Balfour Beatty raised its annual profit forecast after demand in UK power and US buildings, reported by Reuters. Balfour Beatty expects full-year performance to exceed previous guidance following higher first-half underlying profit and strong demand. The group cited a £22.9 billion order book and growth opportunities in UK energy, defence, transport and US buildings. The article says Balfour Beatty’s shares have more than doubled since August 2024, supported by major public-sector infrastructure work. It also highlights Kier’s share-price gains, public-sector revenues and forward revenue visibility.

Key messages:

- Balfour Beatty expects full-year performance to exceed previous guidance following higher first-half underlying profit and strong demand. The group cited a £22.9 billion order book and growth opportunities in UK energy, defence, transport and US buildings.
- Balfour Beatty raised its annual operating-profit forecast. Its shares rose 7% to a record high.
- The article says Balfour Beatty’s shares have more than doubled since August 2024, supported by major public-sector infrastructure work. It also highlights Kier’s share-price gains, public-sector revenues and forward revenue visibility.
- HS2 is increasing odour-control measures at excavation works near Water Orton after residents complained about smells from lime-stabilised material. Balfour Beatty Vinci is identified as the main works contractor for this section of HS2.
- Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick and Balfour Beatty plc face a claim concerning alleged fire-safety defects at a Bradford student accommodation scheme. The claimants estimate remediation costs at about £9.6m.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 63.0% of Balfour Beatty's coverage (theme index 5.67, net tone +91)
- Major Projects & Delivery: 17.4% of Balfour Beatty's coverage (theme index 0.75, net tone +63)
- Workforce, Skills & ESG: 6.5% of Balfour Beatty's coverage (theme index 0.72, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 13 August 2026, lse.co.uk: [Berenberg hikes Balfour Beatty target price after strong H1 beat](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/berenberg-hikes-balfour-beatty-target-price-after-strong-h1-beat-uy8fajetebkq62v.html). Berenberg raised its target price for Balfour Beatty following strong first-half earnings, improved margins and upgraded guidance. The broker cited balance-sheet strength and medium-term growth opportunities.
- 12 August 2026, lse.co.uk: [Balfour Beatty sees FY ahead of expectations on striong demand](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/balfour-beatty-sees-fy-ahead-of-expectations-on-striong-demand-0llpq1bba45urqb.html). Balfour Beatty expects full-year performance to exceed previous guidance following higher first-half underlying profit and strong demand. The group cited a £22.9 billion order book and growth opportunities in UK energy, defence, transport and US buildings.
- 12 August 2026, lse.co.uk: [FTSE 100 falls for third straight session; Balfour Beatty jumps to record high](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/ftse-100-falls-for-third-straight-session-balfour-beatty-jumps-to-record-high-23dsfi5em7j75tp.html). Balfour Beatty raised its annual operating-profit forecast. Its shares rose 7% to a record high.

Notable negative coverage:

- 25 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [HS2 to introduce measures to stop construction site's 'foul odour'](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/civils/hs2/hs2-to-introduce-measures-to-stop-construction-sites-foul-odour-25-08-2026/). HS2 is increasing odour-control measures at North Warwickshire excavation works after resident complaints. Balfour Beatty Vinci is HS2's main works contractor for the affected West Midlands section.
- 25 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Balfour Beatty faces £9.6m liability order claim over student scheme](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/contractors/balfour-beatty/balfour-beatty-faces-9-6m-liability-order-claim-over-student-scheme-25-08-2026/). Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick and Balfour Beatty plc face a claim concerning alleged fire-safety defects at a Bradford student accommodation scheme. The claimants estimate remediation costs at about £9.6m.
- 21 August 2026, newcivilengineer.com: [HS2 agrees to mitigate 'foul odour' from construction site exacerbated by heat](https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/hs2-agrees-to-mitigate-foul-odour-from-construction-site-exacerbated-by-heat-21-08-2026/). HS2 is increasing odour-control measures at excavation works near Water Orton after residents complained about smells from lime-stabilised material. Balfour Beatty Vinci is identified as the main works contractor for this section of HS2.

- [Balfour Beatty deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=balfourbeatty&view=deep-dive)
- [Balfour Beatty PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/balfourbeatty.pdf)

### Kier Group

**Kier regained the lead as contracts broadened its media profile**

Kier Group ranked 2nd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (15.5%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 52 mentions and a net tone of +79.

August brought a return to second on 15.5%, although the captured agenda still included Holden House, Sizewell C roads, Stepney All Saints school and water-sector early works. August 2026: volume fell by 38 to 52 and share declined 4.6 points to 15.5%, returning Kier to second; stories included the £99m Holden House contract and a £100m Sizewell C roads package. Kier has secured a £29m early-works package for a proposed £170m advanced anaerobic digestion facility at Blackburn Wastewater Treatment Works. The main construction phase remains subject to planning permission and final approval. Kier repurchased 250,000 shares during 24-28 August 2026 under its buyback programme, taking total repurchases to more than 6.1 million shares. The update describes the programme as active capital management and notes positive analyst sentiment.

Key messages:

- Kier has secured a £29m early-works package for a proposed £170m advanced anaerobic digestion facility at Blackburn Wastewater Treatment Works. The main construction phase remains subject to planning permission and final approval.
- Kier repurchased 250,000 shares during 24-28 August 2026 under its buyback programme, taking total repurchases to more than 6.1 million shares. The update describes the programme as active capital management and notes positive analyst sentiment.
- Galliford Try withdrew from the Sizewell C link-road work after failing to agree costs following design changes, and Kier will take charge of the link road. The contractor change is expected to delay the road works by six months to a year.
- Kier and East West Railway Company are using thermal-drone surveys to protect nesting birds while maintaining archaeological and construction activity on East West Rail. The approach is intended to reduce programme disruption and improve ecological safeguards.
- Birmingham residents made 499 pothole-related claims in the past year, with Tamworth Road identified as having the most. A councillor criticised Kier's patching work and said the worst section had not been repaired.

Leading themes:

- Major Projects & Delivery: 32.7% of Kier Group's coverage (theme index 1.68, net tone +71)
- Contract Awards & Order Books: 30.8% of Kier Group's coverage (theme index 1.55, net tone +100)
- Policy, Procurement & Infrastructure Pipeline: 17.3% of Kier Group's coverage (theme index 2.04, net tone +56)

Notable positive coverage:

- 27 August 2026, worldconstructionnetwork.com: [Kier awarded $39m contract for Blackburn wastewater upgrade works](https://www.worldconstructionnetwork.com/news/kier-awarded-blackburn-wastewater-upgrade/). Kier secured a £29m early-works package for a proposed advanced anaerobic-digestion facility at Blackburn Wastewater Treatment Works. A wider £170m upgrade remains subject to planning and final approval.
- 29 August 2026, theglobeandmail.com: [Kier Continues Buyback, Lifts Treasury Stock to Over 17 Million Shares](https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/markets-news/Tipranks/4338790/kier-continues-buyback-lifts-treasury-stock-to-over-17-million-shares/). Kier repurchased 250,000 shares during 24-28 August 2026 under its buyback programme, taking total repurchases to more than 6.1 million shares. The update describes the programme as active capital management and notes positive analyst sentiment.
- 26 August 2026, independent.co.uk: [Government's flagship Sizewell C nuclear project delayed in road building row](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/sizewell-c-nuclear-project-roads-delay-b3039712.html). Galliford Try withdrew from the Sizewell C link-road work after failing to agree costs following design changes, and Kier will take charge of the link road. The contractor change is expected to delay the road works by six months to a year.

Notable negative coverage:

- 28 August 2026, birminghammail.co.uk: [Key road named Birmingham's 'pothole capital'](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/sutton-coldfield-road-crowned-birminghams-34488985). Birmingham residents made 499 pothole-related claims in the past year, with Tamworth Road identified as having the most. A councillor criticised Kier's patching work and said the worst section had not been repaired.

- [Kier Group deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=kiergroup&view=deep-dive)
- [Kier Group PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/kiergroup.pdf)

### Morgan Sindall

**Morgan Sindall’s results and projects underpin third-place profile**

Morgan Sindall ranked 3rd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (15.2%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 51 mentions and a net tone of +63.

In August 2026, Morgan Sindall recorded 51 mentions, 15.2% of cohort coverage and rank #3, with net sentiment of +63. Coverage focused on Contract Awards & Order Books. August 2026: Morgan Sindall reorganised its London and Home Counties management and created Northern Home Counties Ventures, reported by Construction News. Morgan Sindall’s fit-out businesses, including Overbury, reported strong FY25 profit growth amid rising demand for office fit-out and refurbishment. Morgan Sindall is recommended to deliver the £6.5m first phase of Plymouth Civic Centre’s conversion into a college and build-to-rent homes. Work is expected to begin in earnest the following month, subject to council approval. Morgan Sindall Construction has begun the £23.6m first phase of a £50m enterprise campus at Cleator Moor. The project is intended to support Sellafield's nuclear-decommissioning supply chain.

Key messages:

- Morgan Sindall’s fit-out businesses, including Overbury, reported strong FY25 profit growth amid rising demand for office fit-out and refurbishment.
- Morgan Sindall Construction has launched Northern Home Counties Ventures and reorganised its London and Home Counties operations into three business units. The announcement includes several leadership appointments and cites growth in the construction division.
- Morgan Sindall is recommended to deliver the £6.5m first phase of Plymouth Civic Centre’s conversion into a college and build-to-rent homes. Work is expected to begin in earnest the following month, subject to council approval.
- Morgan Sindall Construction has begun the £23.6m first phase of a £50m enterprise campus at Cleator Moor. The project is intended to support Sellafield's nuclear-decommissioning supply chain.
- Lovell Homes has paused work at its Charlton housing development after the partial collapse of three nearby houses and commissioned an independent structural survey.

Leading themes:

- Contract Awards & Order Books: 31.4% of Morgan Sindall's coverage (theme index 1.59, net tone +88)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 19.6% of Morgan Sindall's coverage (theme index 5.06, net tone +80)
- Financial Results & Trading: 15.7% of Morgan Sindall's coverage (theme index 0.58, net tone +38)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 August 2026, constructionwave.co.uk: [Construction contractors benefitting from UK fitout boom](https://constructionwave.co.uk/2026/08/28/construction-contractors-benefitting-from-uk-fitout-boom/). Morgan Sindall’s fit-out businesses, including Overbury, reported strong FY25 profit growth amid rising demand for office fit-out and refurbishment.
- 27 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Morgan Sindall reshapes London and Home Counties leadership](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/contractors/morgan-sindall/morgan-sindall-reshapes-london-and-home-counties-leadership-27-08-2026/). Morgan Sindall Construction has reorganised its London and Home Counties management and created Northern Home Counties Ventures. The changes include new regional and area leadership appointments.
- 27 August 2026, constructionwave.co.uk: [Morgan Sindall Construction launches new business unit](https://constructionwave.co.uk/2026/08/27/morgan-sindall-construction-launches-new-business-unit/). Morgan Sindall Construction has launched Northern Home Counties Ventures and reorganised its London and Home Counties operations into three business units. The announcement includes several leadership appointments and cites growth in the construction division.

Notable negative coverage:

- 27 August 2026, newcivilengineer.com: [Lovell Homes](https://www.newcivilengineer.com/tag/lovell-homes/). Lovell Homes has paused work at its Charlton housing development after the partial collapse of three nearby houses and commissioned an independent structural survey.

- [Morgan Sindall deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=morgansindall&view=deep-dive)
- [Morgan Sindall PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/morgansindall.pdf)

### Costain

**Costain ranked fourth as water work broadened its media profile**

Costain ranked 4th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (10.1%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 34 mentions and a net tone of +76.

August's recovery to 10.1% and fourth place accompanied first-half reporting and approximately £150m of Thames Water upgrades across 15 sites. Costain reported higher first-half profit and revenue, doubled its dividend and retained a record £7bn forward work position. It expects a step change in financial performance from FY27. The Financial Times article is a stock-picking feature that includes Costain. Costain is carrying out work on Anglian Water’s existing network at Bexwell, Norfolk, described as ‘keyhole surgery’. Workforce, Skills & ESG was under-indexed, although independent editorial coverage captured Costain's early-career recruitment, career development and inclusion programmes, alongside an expanded PPE and workwear catalogue containing more than 150 inclusive and sustainable items. Costain should present these developments together through employee and site-based evidence. This could establish a clearer competitive media position on how the company recruits, develops and equips its workforce.

Key messages:

- Costain has secured approximately £150m of Thames Water wastewater-treatment upgrade work across 15 Thames Valley sites under AMP8. The work covers asset resilience and treatment-system improvements through 2030.
- Costain reported higher first-half profit and revenue, doubled its dividend and retained a record £7bn forward work position. It expects a step change in financial performance from FY27.
- The Financial Times article is a stock-picking feature that includes Costain.
- Costain is carrying out work on Anglian Water’s existing network at Bexwell, Norfolk, described as ‘keyhole surgery’.
- Financial Results & Trading accounted for 15 mentions in this edition.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 44.1% of Costain's coverage (theme index 1.9, net tone +93)
- Contract Awards & Order Books: 32.4% of Costain's coverage (theme index 1.6, net tone +100)
- Major Projects & Delivery: 11.8% of Costain's coverage (theme index 0.52, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 27 August 2026, facilitiesmanagement-now.com: [Costain to deliver £150M Thames Water wastewater upgrade](https://www.facilitiesmanagement-now.com/article/287439/costain-to-deliver-150m-thames-water-wastewater-upgrade). Thames Water selected Costain for around £150m of wastewater-treatment upgrades across 15 Thames Valley sites during AMP8. The work will modernise treatment assets and improve wastewater-system resilience.
- 13 August 2026, sharecast.com: [Costain on track to deliver 'step change' in performance after strong H1](https://www.sharecast.com/news/news-and-announcements/costain-on-track-to-deliver-step-change-in-performance-after-strong-h1--23253605.html). Costain reported higher first-half profit and revenue, doubled its dividend and retained a record £7bn forward work position. It expects a step change in financial performance from FY27.
- 27 August 2026, newcivilengineer.com: [Thames Water’s Wastewater Asset Assurance Programme (WAAP)](https://www.newcivilengineer.com/tag/thames-waters-wastewater-asset-assurance-programme-waap/). Thames Water selected Costain for approximately £150m of wastewater-treatment upgrades across 15 Thames Valley sites.

- [Costain deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=costain&view=deep-dive)
- [Costain PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/costain.pdf)

### Galliford Try

**August coverage centred on Contract Awards & Order Books**

Galliford Try ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (6.9%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 23 mentions and a net tone of +35.

August’s lower share accompanied a move away from financial reporting towards project and contract coverage, including the Outwoods Primary Care Centre, completion of Paisley Grammar School campus and Galliford Try’s replacement on the Sizewell C highways package after commercial terms were not agreed. Galliford Try has been appointed to deliver the Outwoods Primary Care Centre in Burton-upon-Trent as part of a wider £40m health-village development. It will also redesign the acute front door at Royal Derby Hospital. Galliford Try is the main contractor on proposals to overhaul Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens. Subject to planning consent, work is expected to complete in 2027. Galliford Try is recruiting an Electrical Principal Design Engineer for UK water and wastewater projects. The listing describes a growing water-and-environment order book and expanded in-house design capability.

Key messages:

- Galliford Try has been appointed to deliver the Outwoods Primary Care Centre in Burton-upon-Trent as part of a wider £40m health-village development. It will also redesign the acute front door at Royal Derby Hospital.
- Galliford Try is the main contractor on proposals to overhaul Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens. Subject to planning consent, work is expected to complete in 2027.
- Galliford Try is recruiting an Electrical Principal Design Engineer for UK water and wastewater projects. The listing describes a growing water-and-environment order book and expanded in-house design capability.
- Tameside Council appointed Galliford Try to deliver a 171-space multi-storey car park in Stalybridge. The contract is valued at up to £4.7m and supports the town's wider regeneration plans.
- Sizewell C's access-road works are reported to be delayed by six months to a year after Galliford Try and the project failed to agree costs for the main works. Kier and Breheny Civil Engineering have taken over the remaining road package.

Leading themes:

- Major Projects & Delivery: 34.8% of Galliford Try's coverage (theme index 1.7, net tone −25)
- Contract Awards & Order Books: 34.8% of Galliford Try's coverage (theme index 1.7, net tone +63)
- Other: 13.0% of Galliford Try's coverage (theme index 3.39, net tone +67)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 August 2026, buildingbetterhealthcare.com: [Galliford Try wins £40m Outwoods Primary Care Centre contract](https://www.buildingbetterhealthcare.com/galliford-try-wins-40m-outwoods-primary-care-centre). Galliford Try has been appointed to deliver the Outwoods Primary Care Centre in Burton-upon-Trent as part of a wider £40m health-village development. It will also redesign the acute front door at Royal Derby Hospital.
- 18 August 2026, architectsjournal.co.uk: [Planit submits proposal for overhaul of Manchester's Piccadilly Gardens](https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/planit-submits-proposal-for-overhaul-of-manchesters-piccadilly-gardens). Galliford Try is the main contractor on proposals to overhaul Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens. Subject to planning consent, work is expected to complete in 2027.
- 17 August 2026, building.co.uk: [Long-awaited proposals to rethink Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens submitted](https://www.building.co.uk/news/long-awaited-proposals-to-rethink-manchesters-piccadilly-gardens-submitted/5143695.article). Planit submitted plans to redesign Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens. Galliford Try is due to carry out the works.

Notable negative coverage:

- 26 August 2026, constructionreviewonline.com: [£38.2bn Sizewell Point C Nuclear Plant Faces Major Setback as the Link Road Construction Slips](https://constructionreviewonline.com/38-2bn-sizewell-point-c-nuclear-plant-faces-major-setback-as-the-link-road-construction-slips/). Sizewell C's access-road works are reported to be delayed by six months to a year after Galliford Try and the project failed to agree costs for the main works. Kier and Breheny Civil Engineering have taken over the remaining road package.
- 2 August 2026, oxfordmail.co.uk: [Leader's 'serious concerns' amid £4.4m Oxfordshire high street works' milestone](https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/26414130.leaders-concerns-4-4m-oxfordshire-high-street-works/). Witney Town Council raised concerns about disruption, communications and reported lost trade during Galliford Try's £4.4m High Street and Market Square improvement works. The council and contractor say communications and signage are being addressed as the project continues.
- 25 August 2026, tradersunion.com: [Sizewell C road contract change risks further delays at UK nuclear project](https://tradersunion.com/news/financial-news/show/3106921-sizewell-c-road-contract-delay/). Galliford Try lost the Sizewell C access-road contract after failing to agree commercial terms, with Kier and Breheny taking over the work. Design changes and the contractor switch could delay the roads by six to twelve months.

- [Galliford Try deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=gallifordtry&view=deep-dive)
- [Galliford Try PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/gallifordtry.pdf)

### Sir Robert McAlpine

**Sir Robert McAlpine’s profile shifted from delivery to strategy**

Sir Robert McAlpine ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (6.9%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 23 mentions and a net tone of +74.

In August 2026, Sir Robert McAlpine recorded 23 mentions, 6.9% of cohort coverage and rank #5, with net sentiment of +74. Coverage focused on Workforce, Skills & ESG. August 2026: Sir Robert McAlpine reported a 33% five-year reduction in carbon emissions and launched a new sustainability strategy, covered by theconstructionindex.co.uk. Sir Robert McAlpine is supporting the National Theatre’s 50th-anniversary programme by sharing its construction heritage. The contractor described the building as an example of engineering excellence and craftsmanship. Sir Robert McAlpine is understood to have secured the main-contractor role for the £120m refurbishment of the Ellison Institute of Technology's planned London headquarters. Laing O'Rourke is separately building the first phase of the institute's Oxford facility. The article highlights Sir Robert McAlpine's Temple Quarter delivery approach, including offsite manufacture and autonomous drilling, as examples of reducing site hazards. It argues that planning, information-sharing and collaboration are essential for construction safety.

Key messages:

- Sir Robert McAlpine is supporting the National Theatre’s 50th-anniversary programme by sharing its construction heritage. The contractor described the building as an example of engineering excellence and craftsmanship.
- Sir Robert McAlpine reported a 33% reduction in carbon emissions over its five-year sustainability strategy and said 98% of waste was diverted from landfill. It has launched a new Sustainable Engineering Excellence strategy focused on carbon, circularity and social impact.
- Sir Robert McAlpine is understood to have secured the main-contractor role for the £120m refurbishment of the Ellison Institute of Technology's planned London headquarters. Laing O'Rourke is separately building the first phase of the institute's Oxford facility.
- The article highlights Sir Robert McAlpine's Temple Quarter delivery approach, including offsite manufacture and autonomous drilling, as examples of reducing site hazards. It argues that planning, information-sharing and collaboration are essential for construction safety.
- Reading Council approved revised plans for the next phase of the Station Hill scheme. The scheme's first phase, built by Sir Robert McAlpine, was damaged by a major fire in 2023.

Leading themes:

- Workforce, Skills & ESG: 39.1% of Sir Robert McAlpine's coverage (theme index 6.43, net tone +100)
- Policy, Procurement & Infrastructure Pipeline: 17.4% of Sir Robert McAlpine's coverage (theme index 1.87, net tone +75)
- Contract Awards & Order Books: 13.0% of Sir Robert McAlpine's coverage (theme index 0.59, net tone +67)

Notable positive coverage:

- 18 August 2026, constructionmanagement.co.uk: [Sir Robert McAlpine celebrates National Theatre landmark](https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/sir-robert-mcalpine-celebrates-national-theatre-landmark/). Sir Robert McAlpine is supporting the National Theatre’s 50th-anniversary programme by sharing its construction heritage. The contractor described the building as an example of engineering excellence and craftsmanship.
- 24 August 2026, bdcmagazine.com: [Sir Robert McAlpine turns sustainability ambition into measurable impact](https://bdcmagazine.com/2026/08/sir-robert-mcalpine-turns-sustainability-ambition-into-measurable-impact/). Sir Robert McAlpine’s sustainability report cites a 33% reduction in absolute carbon emissions, 98% construction-waste diversion from landfill and £153m in social return. The contractor has launched its Sustainable Engineering Excellence strategy.
- 27 August 2026, theconstructionindex.co.uk: [Sir Robert McAlpine reports sustainability success](https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/view/sir-robert-mcalpine-reports-sustainability-success). Sir Robert McAlpine reported a 33% reduction in carbon emissions over its five-year sustainability strategy and said 98% of waste was diverted from landfill. It has launched a new Sustainable Engineering Excellence strategy focused on carbon, circularity and social impact.

Notable negative coverage:

- 17 August 2026, bdonline.co.uk: [Council approves Gensler's revised plans for residential towers ...](https://www.bdonline.co.uk/news/council-approves-genslers-revised-plans-for-residential-towers-on-fire-hit-reading-masterplan/5143698.article). Reading Council approved revised plans for the next phase of the Station Hill scheme. The scheme's first phase, built by Sir Robert McAlpine, was damaged by a major fire in 2023.

- [Sir Robert McAlpine deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=sirrobertmcalpine&view=deep-dive)
- [Sir Robert McAlpine PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/sirrobertmcalpine.pdf)

### Mace

**Mace’s profile combined corporate change with major project wins**

Mace ranked 7th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (5.7%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 19 mentions and a net tone of +21.

Mace’s share fell to 5.7% in August, when company-focused evidence included post-demerger restructuring and an unsuccessful bid for Faryners House; other project, award and apprenticeship references were contextual mentions. McLaren has reportedly won the £85m Faryners House office redevelopment, ahead of Mace and Morgan Sindall. Mace is also bidding for a separate Victoria Street redevelopment contract. Mace Construct is restructuring following the Mace Consult demerger, including board and senior leadership changes. It has streamlined to three business units and reports a strong pipeline including the former City Hall redevelopment. Sisk was confirmed as main contractor for the £110m redevelopment of 171 Victoria Street after beating Wates for the scheme. Mace is separately among contractors pricing a future, unrelated Victoria Street redevelopment. SCAPE has opened bidding for an £8bn national construction framework covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland from 2027. The framework will appoint up to 15 contractors across five lots.

Key messages:

- McLaren has reportedly won the £85m Faryners House office redevelopment, ahead of Mace and Morgan Sindall. Mace is also bidding for a separate Victoria Street redevelopment contract.
- Mace Construct is restructuring following the Mace Consult demerger, including board and senior leadership changes. It has streamlined to three business units and reports a strong pipeline including the former City Hall redevelopment.
- Sisk was confirmed as main contractor for the £110m redevelopment of 171 Victoria Street after beating Wates for the scheme. Mace is separately among contractors pricing a future, unrelated Victoria Street redevelopment.
- SCAPE has opened bidding for an £8bn national construction framework covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland from 2027. The framework will appoint up to 15 contractors across five lots.

Leading themes:

- Major Projects & Delivery: 42.1% of Mace's coverage (theme index 2.08, net tone 0)
- Contract Awards & Order Books: 21.1% of Mace's coverage (theme index 0.98, net tone −25)
- Workforce, Skills & ESG: 15.8% of Mace's coverage (theme index 2, net tone +100)

- [Mace deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=mace&view=deep-dive)
- [Mace PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/mace.pdf)

### Laing O'Rourke

**Laing O’Rourke’s visibility swung between disputes, delivery and growth**

Laing O'Rourke ranked 8th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (4.5%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 15 mentions and a net tone of +60.

In August 2026, Laing O'Rourke recorded 15 mentions, 4.5% of cohort coverage and rank #8, with net sentiment of +60. Coverage focused on Contract Awards & Order Books. Laing O'Rourke contributed construction delivery and FF&E design expertise to the refurbishment of Emberton House into Wetherby Pembridge School. The project combines heritage retention, sustainability upgrades and modern education facilities. Laing O'Rourke has been appointed for substation works on National Grid's North West London Upgrade. The programme includes upgrades to substations, overhead lines and the Elstree-St John's Wood cable tunnel. Laing O'Rourke has started construction of new facilities at Calderdale Royal Hospital, including emergency departments and eight wards, due for completion in 2029. Laing O'Rourke selected GE Vernova to provide a 400kV GIS substation at Chesterfield for National Grid's Great Grid Upgrade. The scheme supports expansion and modernisation of UK electricity transmission infrastructure.

Key messages:

- Laing O'Rourke contributed construction delivery and FF&E design expertise to the refurbishment of Emberton House into Wetherby Pembridge School. The project combines heritage retention, sustainability upgrades and modern education facilities.
- Laing O'Rourke has been appointed for substation works on National Grid's North West London Upgrade. The programme includes upgrades to substations, overhead lines and the Elstree-St John's Wood cable tunnel.
- Laing O'Rourke has started construction of new facilities at Calderdale Royal Hospital, including emergency departments and eight wards, due for completion in 2029.
- Laing O'Rourke selected GE Vernova to provide a 400kV GIS substation at Chesterfield for National Grid's Great Grid Upgrade. The scheme supports expansion and modernisation of UK electricity transmission infrastructure.

Leading themes:

- Contract Awards & Order Books: 40.0% of Laing O'Rourke's coverage (theme index 1.94, net tone +83)
- Major Projects & Delivery: 20.0% of Laing O'Rourke's coverage (theme index 0.93, net tone +100)
- Other: 13.3% of Laing O'Rourke's coverage (theme index 3.28, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 August 2026, bdonline.co.uk: [What made this project... Wetherby Pembridge School by HLM Architects](https://www.bdonline.co.uk/news/what-made-this-project-wetherby-pembridge-school-by-hlm-architects/5143584.article). Laing O'Rourke contributed construction delivery and FF&E design expertise to the refurbishment of Emberton House into Wetherby Pembridge School. The project combines heritage retention, sustainability upgrades and modern education facilities.
- 14 August 2026, constructionenquirer.com: [Laing O'Rourke and HMJV lead £1bn Grid upgrade for AI boom](https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2026/08/14/laing-orourke-and-hmjv-spearhead-grid-upgrade-for-ai-boom/). Laing O'Rourke has secured substation packages on National Grid's North West London Upgrade. The programme will expand transmission capacity to support new data-centre connections.
- 14 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Laing O'Rourke and Hochtief-Murphy JV win major National Grid packages](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/contracts/laing-orourke-and-hochtief-murphy-jv-win-major-national-grid-packages-14-08-2026/). Laing O'Rourke has been appointed for substation works on National Grid's North West London Upgrade. The programme includes upgrades to substations, overhead lines and the Elstree-St John's Wood cable tunnel.

Notable negative coverage:

- 12 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Improvement notice deadline extended after worker injured at Hinkley Point C](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/health-and-safety/improvement-notice-deadline-extended-after-worker-injured-at-hinkley-point-c-12-08-2026/). The nuclear regulator extended improvement-notice deadlines for the Bylor JV after a falling formwork panel seriously injured a worker at Hinkley Point C. Laing O'Rourke Delivery is a Bylor JV partner.
- 11 August 2026, newcivilengineer.com: [Hinkley Point C contractors disciplined after incident left worker with "serious injuries"](https://www.newcivilengineer.com/latest/hinkley-point-c-contractors-disciplined-after-incident-left-worker-with-serious-injuries-11-08-2026/). Bylor JV, comprising Bouygues Travaux Publics and Laing O'Rourke, received extended ONR improvement notices after a formwork panel fell 29 metres at Hinkley Point C, seriously injuring a worker. The JV has until 14 September 2026 to demonstrate compliance.

- [Laing O'Rourke deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=laingorourke&view=deep-dive)
- [Laing O'Rourke PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/laingorourke.pdf)

### Skanska UK

**Skanska’s project-led profile broadened but lost competitive ground**

Skanska UK ranked 8th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (4.5%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 15 mentions and a net tone of +40.

August 2026: Skanska used prefabricated building-services modules at South Molton in Mayfair, reported by Construction Management. Skanska UK chief executive Katy Dowding is featured among female leaders shaping construction, discussing the value of representation in leadership. The article says Skanska UK's revenue exceeded £1.3bn after high-value contract wins. Skanska UK topped August's contractor league table after being appointed to two New Hospital Programme schemes in Norfolk. The article also reports substantial hospital awards and annual league-table positions for several cohort contractors. The article examines lower-carbon materials and adoption barriers in UK highway construction. Galliford Try used a geocomposite drainage solution at Melton Mowbray, while Skanska participated in basalt-reinforcement trials for National Highways. The New Hospital Programme will hold a supply-chain engagement event for five East of England hospital schemes. The article identifies Skanska, Kier, Morgan Sindall, Laing O'Rourke and Sir Robert McAlpine-linked Integrated Health Projects among appointed construction partners.

Key messages:

- Skanska used offsite MEP modules on the South Molton mixed-use development in Mayfair. It said the approach reduced installation time, improved quality and enhanced site safety.
- Skanska UK chief executive Katy Dowding is featured among female leaders shaping construction, discussing the value of representation in leadership. The article says Skanska UK's revenue exceeded £1.3bn after high-value contract wins.
- Skanska UK topped August's contractor league table after being appointed to two New Hospital Programme schemes in Norfolk. The article also reports substantial hospital awards and annual league-table positions for several cohort contractors.
- The article examines lower-carbon materials and adoption barriers in UK highway construction. Galliford Try used a geocomposite drainage solution at Melton Mowbray, while Skanska participated in basalt-reinforcement trials for National Highways.

Leading themes:

- Policy, Procurement & Infrastructure Pipeline: 40.0% of Skanska UK's coverage (theme index 4.74, net tone +17)
- Major Projects & Delivery: 33.3% of Skanska UK's coverage (theme index 1.59, net tone +40)
- Workforce, Skills & ESG: 13.3% of Skanska UK's coverage (theme index 1.64, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 20 August 2026, constructionmanagement.co.uk: [Skanska adopts prefab for Mayfair MEP installation](https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/skanska-adopts-prefab-for-mayfair-mep-installation/). Skanska used offsite MEP modules on the South Molton mixed-use development in Mayfair. It said the approach reduced installation time, improved quality and enhanced site safety.
- 7 August 2026, constructionwave.co.uk: [10 influential women shaping the future of construction](https://constructionwave.co.uk/2026/08/07/10-influential-women-shaping-the-future-of-construction/). Skanska UK chief executive Katy Dowding is featured among female leaders shaping construction, discussing the value of representation in leadership. The article says Skanska UK's revenue exceeded £1.3bn after high-value contract wins.
- 5 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Hospital framework jobs push Skanska to August title](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/contracts/construction-league-tables/hospital-framework-jobs-push-skanska-to-july-title-05-08-2026/). Skanska UK topped August's contractor league table after being appointed to two New Hospital Programme schemes in Norfolk. The article also reports substantial hospital awards and annual league-table positions for several cohort contractors.

- [Skanska UK deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=skanskauk&view=deep-dive)
- [Skanska UK PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/skanskauk.pdf)

### Wates

**Wates visibility swung between contracts, results and leadership change**

Wates ranked 10th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (3.3%) in the UK Construction Contractors benchmark for August 2026, with 11 mentions and a net tone of +64.

In August 2026, Wates recorded 11 mentions, 3.3% of cohort coverage and rank #10, with net sentiment of +64. Coverage focused on Leadership, Strategy & M&A. August 2026: Wates was set to complete Hackney’s Britannia housing scheme after Ardmore entered administration, reported by Construction Enquirer. Wates Construction has appointed Roger Forsdyke as UK operations director from 1 September 2026. He will lead operational teams and support the company’s business optimisation and growth plans. SES Technology has appointed Andrew Scott as pre-construction director to support growth in data, technology and advanced-manufacturing work. SES reported 55% revenue growth to £463.7m for 2024. Hackney Council entered a pre-construction services agreement with Wates Construction for the paused Britannia project after Ardmore Construction Group entered administration. Wates is assessing the works and supply chain ahead of a proposed construction restart.

Key messages:

- Wates Construction has appointed Roger Forsdyke as UK operations director from 1 September 2026. He will lead operational teams and support the company’s business optimisation and growth plans.
- SES Technology has appointed Andrew Scott as pre-construction director to support growth in data, technology and advanced-manufacturing work. SES reported 55% revenue growth to £463.7m for 2024.
- Hackney Council entered a pre-construction services agreement with Wates Construction for the paused Britannia project after Ardmore Construction Group entered administration. Wates is assessing the works and supply chain ahead of a proposed construction restart.
- Sisk was confirmed as main contractor for the £110m redevelopment of 171 Victoria Street after beating Wates for the scheme. Mace is separately among contractors pricing a future, unrelated Victoria Street redevelopment.

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 54.5% of Wates's coverage (theme index 11.78, net tone +83)
- Contract Awards & Order Books: 45.5% of Wates's coverage (theme index 2.2, net tone +40)

Notable positive coverage:

- 17 August 2026, constructionnews.co.uk: [Wates appoints Willmott Dixon executive as UK operations director](https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/contractors/wates/wates-appoints-willmott-dixon-executive-as-uk-operations-director-17-08-2026/). Wates Construction appointed Roger Forsdyke as UK operations director from 1 September. He will lead regional operational teams and support growth and business optimisation.
- 17 August 2026, building.co.uk: [Wates appoints Willmott Dixon boss to UK operations director role ...](https://www.building.co.uk/news/wates-appoints-willmott-dixon-boss-to-uk-operations-director-role-at-construction-business/5143690.article). Wates Construction appointed Roger Forsdyke as UK operations director. The appointment supports its strategy to grow sustainably and deliver more complex, high-value projects.
- 17 August 2026, constructionwave.co.uk: [Wates recruits former Willmott Dixon operations chief](https://constructionwave.co.uk/2026/08/17/wates-recruits-former-willmott-dixon-operations-chief/). Wates Construction appointed Roger Forsdyke as UK operations director from 1 September. The company said the role will support operational performance and sustainable growth across its UK business.

Notable negative coverage:

- 26 August 2026, building.co.uk: [Sisk confirmed for £110m deal to overhaul John Lewis' former London HQ](https://www.building.co.uk/news/sisk-confirmed-for-110m-deal-to-overhaul-john-lewis-former-london-hq/5143809.article). Sisk was confirmed as main contractor for the £110m redevelopment of 171 Victoria Street after beating Wates for the scheme. Mace is separately among contractors pricing a future, unrelated Victoria Street redevelopment.

- [Wates deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08?entity=wates&view=deep-dive)
- [Wates PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08/reports/wates.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Construction Contractors editions

- [UK construction contractors media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK construction contractors media reputation tracker – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-h1.md)
- [UK construction contractors media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-07.md)
- [UK construction contractors media reputation tracker – September 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-09.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK construction contractors media reputation tracker", August 2026 (1 August 2026–31 August 2026), published 1 September 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-construction-contractors-2026-08