The government's major projects are getting back on track after a challenging period, according to the latest report from the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA). The Major Projects Annual Report 2025 to 2026 paints a positive picture of progress in delivering some of the UK's most complex infrastructure initiatives. Despite setbacks earlier this year, NISTA's analysis reveals that many projects are now showing strong delivery foundations.
NISTA's report covers the period from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026 and indicates that a majority of projects within the Government Major Projects Portfolio (GMPP) were rated either 'Green' or 'Amber' for delivery confidence. A 'Green' rating signifies that successful delivery is highly likely, while 'Amber' suggests that delivery is feasible but requires attention to manage risks.
Some 42 projects have concluded their time within the GMPP since April 2025, with 26 successfully delivered against their original objectives. These include high-profile programmes such as the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs' (DEFRA) Biosecurity, Borders and Trade Programme and the Ministry of Justice's (MOJ) Drug Testing Services. A further eight projects no longer met the GMPP's reporting criteria, one was replaced by successor projects, and seven were brought to an early closure.
Notably, 17 of the departing projects had a 'Green' rating, indicating that even those that have left the portfolio had strong delivery foundations in place. Furthermore, there has been significant improvement across the portfolio since August 2025, with 18 projects moving from an 'Amber' to a 'Green' rating and one project demonstrating a remarkable turnaround from a 'Red' to a 'Green' rating.
At the end of March 2026, 29 projects – representing 15% of the GMPP – held a 'Green' rating. This is a significant increase on previous reports and indicates that the government's efforts to enhance delivery standards are beginning to bear fruit. Chief Secretary Lucy Rigby MP has emphasised the importance of this progress, stating that "This Government is building a stronger culture of delivery - raising standards, strengthening capability, and using the power of digital and AI to secure the infrastructure and public services the UK deserves."
Becky Wood, Chief Executive of NISTA, highlighted the value of these assessments as an early warning system. She said that proactive intervention can prevent issues escalating and ensure successful outcomes for the public. The government's commitment to swift action in response to delivery risks is a key aspect of its 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy.