“A reliance on oversees talent has been a key feature of the construction sector for a long time – meaning an anxious wait until June’s referendum. With a potential worsening skills gap on the horizon, initiatives to develop home grown talent are beginning to appear. The launch of the new National Skills Academy for Construction in London this week marks a significant starting point, and a commitment from the government to invest in young talent. Apprenticeships and placements are the perfect way to bridge skills shortages and nurture Britain’s construction talent. More schemes like this are needed throughout the country however to really transform the industry.
“Compared to the average – construction can offer a lucrative career. In February, the average advertised salary in the construction industry stood at £40,509 – much higher than the UK average of £33,800. And opportunities within the sector will keep growing. Demand for housing and new developments is constantly rising, meaning more jobs are likely to come onto the market. And also the travel opportunities a career in construction can bring are fantastic. For many young people looking for a practical career, construction is a great choice and the government needs to encourage this.”
ONS Output in the Construction Industry, Feb 2016
- In February 2016, output in the construction industry was estimated to have decreased by 0.3% compared with January 2016. Both all new work and repair and maintenance reported decreases, falling by 0.2% and 0.5% respectively.
- Within new work, there were decreases in all work types, except private new housing.
- In February 2016, all work types except total housing and non-housing repair and maintenance contributed to the decrease in construction output.
- Compared with February 2015, output in the construction industry increased by 0.3%. All new work was flat while there was an increase of 0.8% in repair and maintenance.
- Comparing the 3 months, December 2015 to February 2016, with the previous 3 months, September 2015 to November 2015, construction output increased by 1.5%. All new work increased by 2.5% while there was a fall of 0.3% in repair and maintenance.
- When comparing the 3 months, December 2015 to February 2016, with the same 3 months a year ago, construction output was estimated to have increased by 0.3%. All new work increased by 0.8% and repair and maintenance fell by 0.7%.
