National Civils Show Bringing the Future of Infrastructure to ExCeL London
The UK’s civil engineering and infrastructure community is preparing for a pivotal event this autumn, as the National Civils Show opens its doors at ExCeL London on 26th and 27th November 2025. Designed as the nation’s premier civils and infrastructure exhibition, the event will unite engineers, contractors, consultants, and policymakers to explore how innovation, technology, and sustainability are shaping Britain’s infrastructure future.
Positioned as the definitive event for civil engineering, the show will feature an impressive line-up of 165 exhibitors across multiple disciplines. From construction technology and geotechnical solutions to transport infrastructure and environmental engineering, the exhibition promises an immersive experience packed with live demonstrations, networking opportunities, and a forward-thinking conference programme.
Collaboration Across Infrastructure and Environmental Disciplines
The National Civils Show runs adjacent to the National Drainage & Floodex Show, which focuses on flood defence, drainage, and waterways management. The co-location is seen as an inspired decision by organisers and industry participants alike. Without physical barriers between the halls, attendees can seamlessly move between the two events, experiencing the full spectrum of civil and environmental engineering solutions in one expansive venue.
The timing couldn’t be more relevant. Following the UK government’s recent announcement of £2.8 billion in new flood defence spending, the exhibition arrives as the sector braces for renewed investment and transformation. The event aims to foster collaboration between engineers, contractors, and government representatives, driving conversations that will influence the nation’s future infrastructure strategies.
Industry Support and Strategic Partnerships
The show is already attracting endorsement from some of the UK’s most influential organisations, including:
- Civil Engineering Contractors Association (Southern)
- Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT)
- National Highways
- National Association of Drainage Contractors (NADC)
- Environmental Industries Association (EIA)
- Pipeline Industries Guild
- Worshipful Company of Engineers
- Plant Planet and Demolition Spotlight
This widespread support underscores the show’s growing importance as a national platform for advancing both technical excellence and policy dialogue across the infrastructure landscape.
Key Features and Highlights
Visitors can expect a diverse range of experiences designed to both inform and inspire. Key highlights include:
- 165+ Exhibitors showcasing the latest civil engineering innovations, materials, and technologies.
- Live demonstrations of groundworks equipment, geotechnical testing, and digital construction tools.
- Two-day SuDS Theatre, dedicated to sustainable drainage systems and climate resilience.
- Environmental Industries Association Pavilion, spotlighting next-generation environmental and sustainability solutions.
- Comprehensive networking zones, facilitating meetings between contractors, buyers, and public sector representatives.
Paul Shelley, Event Director for the National Civils Show, emphasised the event’s significance: “The National Civils Show is a much-needed platform for the sector—bringing everyone together under one roof to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and celebrate civil engineering excellence. Whether you’re a contractor, consultant, supplier, or policymaker, this is the must-attend event of the year for civil infrastructure.”
Spotlight on the Autumn Budget and Infrastructure Policy
Among the most anticipated sessions of the conference agenda is ‘CECA Reflections on the Autumn Budget’, delivered by Ben Goodwin, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA). His presentation will dissect the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget Statement, examining the implications for long-term infrastructure funding and the delivery of the UK’s economic networks.
Goodwin, who joined CECA in September 2025, brings over 15 years of policy and public affairs experience in the built and natural environment sectors. His background includes key roles at the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (IEMA) and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), where he led policy teams advocating for sustainable, future-ready infrastructure.
This session will be one to watch, providing delegates with direct insights into how fiscal policies are expected to impact the civil engineering landscape in the coming years.
A Hub for Sustainable and Digital Innovation
A growing focus for the National Civils Show is the industry’s digital transformation and commitment to sustainability. Exhibitors and speakers will showcase technologies that integrate data-driven design, digital twins, AI analytics, and green materials, reflecting the sector’s shift towards low-carbon, intelligent infrastructure systems.
The Environmental Industries Association Pavilion is set to be a major attraction, bringing together pioneering firms offering solutions in waste management, air quality, energy efficiency, and environmental compliance. These innovations align with the UK’s net-zero ambitions, showcasing how the civil engineering sector can drive sustainability through technology and design.
Enhancing Industry Collaboration and Skills Development
In addition to technology showcases, the event will host seminars and panel discussions led by senior figures from engineering consultancies, manufacturers, trade associations, and public bodies. Topics will include workforce skills, infrastructure resilience, and future project delivery frameworks.
A particular emphasis will be placed on the skills pipeline, addressing how the industry can attract new talent and upskill existing professionals to meet evolving digital and environmental demands. By integrating real-world engineering challenges with academic and training opportunities, the National Civils Show seeks to build a stronger foundation for the next generation of civil engineers.
Free Access and Networking Opportunities
Registration for the National Civils Show is completely free, offering open access to all industry professionals across construction, transport, utilities, and energy. The two-day event is expected to attract thousands of visitors, creating a vibrant hub for networking and collaboration.
Attendees can explore the exhibitor list, speaker programme, and registration details on the official website. The show’s inclusive design, free entry, and wide-ranging exhibitor base make it a rare opportunity for both large firms and SMEs to connect and learn from one another.
Shaping the Future of British Infrastructure
The National Civils Show represents more than a trade exhibition—it’s a reflection of a sector determined to adapt, innovate, and deliver resilient, sustainable infrastructure for the future. With new investment, evolving technology, and stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, the UK’s civil engineering community is entering a transformative era.
By bringing the nation’s leading experts, organisations, and innovators together under one roof, ExCeL London will once again serve as the stage for charting the next chapter in Britain’s infrastructure story.
Registration is open now for free entry via the official website, where attendees can also view the latest exhibitor and speaker updates.
