The Top 7 Civil Engineering Companies in the UK in 2025

Civil engineering remains the backbone of UK infrastructure, supporting everything from transport to water systems. In 2025, the sector is defined by innovation, sustainability, and major projects like HS2. Amid rising costs and a push for net-zero, certain firms are setting the pace. This list spotlights seven civil engineering companies leading the charge in engineering excellence and future-focused development.

1. Balfour Beatty plc

Balfour Beatty leads the UK’s civil engineering companies’ scene with a £10 billion+ turnover and an order book of £18.4 billion. Despite a 12% drop in 2024 pre-tax profits, the firm responded with a £125 million share buyback and a 9% dividend hike. Its portfolio includes iconic infrastructure like HS2 and the Thames Tideway Tunnel.

Key Details:

• Headquarters: London
• Revenue (2024): £10+ billion
• Key Projects: HS2, Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route
• Specialities: Transport, energy, complex infrastructure

This scale and versatility keep Balfour Beatty at the centre of the UK’s infrastructure evolution.

2. Kier Group plc

Kier remains a major player in public sector infrastructure, with a strong focus on highways and utilities. With a market cap near $804 million, it continues to deliver through frameworks with National Highways and local authorities. Recent digital and ESG reforms have strengthened its operations and public profile.

Key Details:

• Founded: 1928
• Headquarters: Manchester
• Notable Projects: M20 Junction 10a, Hinkley Point C
• Core Markets: Highways, utilities, defence

Kier’s delivery on critical national frameworks ensures its ongoing relevance in government infrastructure.

3. Morgan Sindall Group plc

Morgan Sindall’s diversified operations span construction, infrastructure, fit-out, and regeneration. With a $2.2 billion market cap, it stands out for profitability and consistent delivery. It has a solid presence in rail, highways, and nuclear, while driving social impact through urban renewal.

Highlights:

• Headquarters: London
• Key Projects: Paddington Square, Crossrail
• Specialities: Rail, housing, urban regeneration
• Differentiator: Multi-sector resilience

Its balance of technical strength and regeneration focus makes Morgan Sindall a standout performer.

4. Costain Group plc

Costain is leading the way in smart infrastructure, blending engineering with digital tech. With a market cap of $323.8 million, it’s known for its work in highways, water, and clean energy. Major contracts include the A14 upgrade and Thames Tideway, delivered with a focus on carbon neutrality and tech-driven planning.

Quick Facts:

• Founded: 1865
• Headquarters: Maidenhead
• Key Projects: A14, Thames Tideway
• Strategic Focus: Smart, sustainable infrastructure

Costain’s focus on innovation positions it well for the next generation of infrastructure delivery.

5. Galliford Try Holdings plc

Galliford Try delivers across highways, water, and environmental sectors. With a $491.2 million market cap, it supports key national infrastructure like flood defences and water resilience. It remains one of the trusted civil engineering companies for agencies, including the Environment Agency and Severn Trent.

Quick Profile:

• Headquarters: Uxbridge
• Key Projects: A47, flood defence schemes
• Specialities: Water, transport, utilities
• Strengths: Public-private frameworks

Its collaborative model and sector specialisation make Galliford Try an indispensable civil partner.

6. ECL Civil Engineering Ltd

ECL is a rapidly growing force, recognised in the Sunday Times Top Track 250. Its focus is groundworks and residential infrastructure, often acting as a subcontractor to major housebuilders. With a self-delivery model and regional reach, ECL excels in efficiency and HSE standards.

At a Glance:

• Founded: 1994
• Headquarters: Bedford
• Key Projects: Wintringham Park, Brickyard Farm
• Strengths: Groundworks, housing, cost control

ECL’s agility and quality assurance have cemented its status in regional civil contracting.

7. Octavius Infrastructure

Octavius, reborn in 2021 from Osborne Infrastructure, has already secured £349 million in projects. Its focus is on highways, rail, and urban transit, particularly in southern England. With lean methods and ESG commitment, it’s earning trust from clients like Network Rail and TfL.

Key Facts:

• Founded: 2021
• Headquarters: Reigate
• Core Areas: Highways, rail, commercial builds
• Recent Projects: Long Stratton Bypass, 50 Fenchurch Street

In a short time, Octavius has positioned itself as a future-ready, client-aligned contractor.

In 2025, UK civil engineering is being reshaped by sustainability, digitisation, and major state investments. The seven firms profiled here are not only leading the market but redefining the future of infrastructure. Their work—spanning transport, utilities, and housing—will influence how the UK builds smarter, greener, and more resilient systems for decades to come.