Inside DRS – Latest news, updates and events

2026 marks the 50th Anniversary of the RICS Dispute Resolution Service (DRS).

Since 1976, DRS has been at the forefront of delivering ADR appointment services, training programmes, and innovative solutions for the built environment.

As we mark our 50th anniversary, we celebrate the milestones, people, and progress that have shaped our journey.

DRS news and recent activities

• DRS is incredibly proud of our Head of Operations and Appointments, Gemma Beasley, who was recently admitted as a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Arbitrators. This is well-deserved recognition of the commitment and hard work Gemma gives to the ADR community.
• Our event for London International Disputes Week drew a strong audience again this year. We were pleased to welcome a full room of industry professionals who turned up to hear from an exceptionally high-calibre speakers as they examined ethics, professionalism and the growing impact of AI and evolving regulations on dispute resolution practice. Thanks to all who joined us, and to the excellent speakers for their time and considered insights.
• DRS Head of Operations and Appointments, Gemma Beasley's recent working trip to Australia highlighted the growing importance of international collaboration in dispute resolution. Her visit reinforced DRS’s commitment to strengthening global dialogue and developing fair, efficient, and accessible dispute resolution practices in an increasingly complex construction landscape.
• We were delighted that some of our DRS panel members - Clive Gillingwater, Eric Mouzer and Mark Sanders - were invited to the RICS Members' Recognition Summer Lunch recently as a thank you for all their support to DRS over the years.
• John Fletcher’s recent engagement programme in South Africa, including the Africa Construction Law Conference, highlighted growing demand for more practical, early-stage dispute resolution approaches across the region. DRS is committed to building local capability, strengthening partnerships, and promoting effective, cost-efficient mechanisms such as conflict avoidance. Read more about it here.
• The DRS team were pleased to attend the Indian Council of Arbitration conference in London. We were also delighted to reconnect with a delegation from the Sau, to explore ways we can work together regarding built environment disputes in the Kingdom.
• The DRS Panellist Summer Reception, celebrating the 50th anniversary of DRS and the vital role panellists play in its story, will be held in Birmingham later this month. A limited number of places are still available. If you are a dispute resolver on one of our panels and have not yet responded to your invitation, please contact us to secure your place at drs@rics.org.