Next generation of construction - a boost to the NHS?

New analysis from Mace has found that the NHS could be boosted by the equivalent of over 13,000 new nurses if there was a 'construction revolution' that could enhance productivity in the UK's hospitals.

Nurses, teachers and prison officers would all reap rewards from the introduction of the next generation of construction technology and processes, according to the analysis by a former Bank of England economist.

The report from Mace argues that - beyond significant on-site productivity increases and cheaper, more sustainable construction - the adoption of innovative engagement and production approaches to the design and construction of buildings could deliver a revolution in the delivery of our public services.

By enabling more user-centric design and earlier supply chain engagement and product solutions, hospitals, schools and offices could be built in a way that improves productivity and delivers better outcomes for society.

Researchers polling workers found that four in 10 public sector workers felt that they currently lose more than two hours a week to unproductive workplaces. If the UK's 237,000 adults' nurses in acute, elderly and genral care were to work in new productivity- enhanced hospital they would gain back a total of 25 million hours of time every year. This equates to adding 13,500 full-time nurses to the NHS workforce.

The report recommends that the government creates construction, engineering and manufacturing enterprise zones across the UK and overhaul the funding model for innovation in UK construction.