BALI responds to Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s resignation

As the UK’s leading trade association for landscaping, horticulture and grounds maintenance professionals, BALI notes the resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the political transition now underway across Government, and remains committed to working constructively with ministers, parliamentarians and policymakers from across the political spectrum to support economic growth, environmental resilience and healthier communities.

The UK environmental horticulture and landscaping sector contributes £38 billion to GDP, supporting over 722,000 jobs across design, construction, horticulture, maintenance and green infrastructure. The industry also plays a critical role in delivering climate resilience, biodiversity enhancement, flood mitigation and public wellbeing through the creation and maintenance of high-quality green spaces.

Wayne Grills, BALI Chief Executive, said, “Periods of political change provide an opportunity to renew focus on the policies and investment needed to support the UK’s environmental horticulture and landscaping sector. Our industry is a significant contributor to the UK economy and an essential partner in achieving national goals around housing, sustainability, biodiversity and public health.”

“We look forward to engaging with incoming ministers and Government departments to ensure the profession is recognised as a strategic industry capable of delivering long-term economic and environmental value. It is vital that any new Government officials work closely with BALI and the wider sector to strengthen skills, encourage investment and support the delivery of greener infrastructure nationwide.”

BALI will continue to advocate for investment in skills, green infrastructure, biodiversity and high-quality landscape standards as part of the industry’s contribution to a greener and more prosperous Britain.

For more information about BALI's policy work, visit bali-policy.org.uk/news