UK ‘most attractive’ destination for infrastructure investment

That’s according to new research published by AtkinsRéalis, which claimed there is now a “window of opportunity” to unlock private finance for UK infrastructure.

The research found that 90% of institutional investors view the UK as an attractive destination, however nearly two-thirds (64%) have walked away from UK projects because of unattractive business cases. Only 19% would strongly prioritise the UK over other regions.

Some 71% see UK infrastructure as low-to-medium risk, but investors have called for stronger risk management frameworks, viable business cases, and government-backed incentives.

Around 37% of investors are seeking public-private partnerships and 30% willing to pilot innovative approaches.

The report, De-risk, Incentivise, Deliver: Funding UK Infrastructure for Growth, also found that recent government initiatives have sent positive signals to the market, but that there needed to be concrete action from public and private sector to incentivise private finance, accelerate delivery, and de-risk projects to fully realise the UK’s infrastructure ambitions.

Chris Ball, president - UK & Ireland, AtkinsRéalis, said, “AtkinsRéalis’ research shows that the UK has a real opportunity to crowd in private capital and deliver the infrastructure needed for economic growth and social impact if we can act swiftly and build on the positive progress over the last year.

“New funding and finance initiatives will incentivise investment, but we all have a role to play to de-risk projects and demonstrate the UK’s ability to deliver attractive investment options. The research findings make a clear case for closer collaboration, early integration, credible delivery plans and better contract frameworks that could strengthen business cases and turn this strong sentiment into positive outcomes for projects and communities across the country.”

The findings are based on 100+ interviews with senior decision-makers at major institutional investors delivered in October 2025. The full report is available here.