BUILD Suffolk draws over 250 delegates to showcase the future of construction, infrastructure and growth

The inaugural BUILD Suffolk event has been hailed a major success after bringing together over 250 delegates, 32 expert speakers and 15 exhibitors from across the construction, infrastructure, energy and development sectors for a sold-out day of networking, collaboration and industry insight.

Hosted by Suffolk Chamber of Commerce through its Suffolk Supply Chain programme, BUILD Suffolk took place at Wherstead Park, on Thursday, October 1, and showcased the scale of opportunity being created by nationally significant infrastructure projects and investment across Suffolk and the wider East of England.

Delegates heard from leading organisations involved in some of the UK’s most significant infrastructure and development programmes, including Sizewell C, National Grid, EastWind and the New Hospital Programme, alongside expert discussions focused on lasting legacy, skills, social value, sustainability and supply chain collaboration.

The event opened with a national keynote address from Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, and a local keynote from Andy Laflin, chair of the Suffolk Joint Construction Committee, reflecting both the national significance and local impact of investment taking place across the region.

BUILD Suffolk was supported by a range of industry sponsors committed to strengthening the region’s construction and infrastructure sector, while the exhibition showcased organisations representing major projects, contractors, educational institutions, public sector bodies and specialist support services.

Feedback from delegates has been overwhelmingly positive, underlining the appetite for greater collaboration and engagement across the sector.

John Dugmore, the chief executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said: “We have been absolutely delighted by the response to BUILD Suffolk. Bringing together the people, projects and partnerships shaping the future of our region.

“This event really demonstrated both the scale of opportunity available and the strength of Suffolk’s construction, infrastructure and energy sectors.

“The discussions throughout the day highlighted not only the significant investment coming into our region, but also the determination of businesses, educators, developers and public sector partners to work together to maximise local benefit.

“The discussions and insights shared by attendees were powerful and confirmed the importance of events like these, where businesses can come together to better understand future opportunities and contribute to Suffolk’s long-term growth.”

The event forms part of Suffolk Chamber’s continuing work to support business growth through the Suffolk Supply Chain programme, helping local organisations access opportunities arising from major projects and strengthening connections between developers, contractors and regional suppliers.

Following the success of this year’s event, plans are already underway to build on the momentum generated by BUILD Suffolk and continue supporting collaboration across the industries helping to shape Suffolk’s future.