UK Construction News

The latest challenge the construction industry has faced is a major shortfall of workers, requiring at least 50,000 more annually. Whilst the UK’s population has grown by 2.5 million since 2019, the construction workforce has decreased by 320,000, leaving just 29 workers per 1,000 people. Despite efforts to attract overseas workers and train more apprentices, the number of skilled workers has still fallen short.

Seeking a solution to this issue, a government reform in late March pledged £600 million to train 60,000 skilled construction workers by 2029. Welcome news to those already in the trade, the training covers a broad scope of engineers, brickies, sparkies, and chippies.

The younger generations could significantly benefit from the investment, with £175 million going to apprenticeships and colleges. This covers 10 new Technical Excellence colleges and funding for existing colleges to deliver more construction courses.

Will the government’s push for 5,000 new apprentices by 2028 be enough to close the gap? Younger generations are tech-savvy and not typically associated with the hands-on nature of building. According to FE Week, in a survey of approx. 2,500 apprentices due to finish their courses in 2021, nearly half dropped out before completion, with 37% stating this was mainly because of a lack of support from employers.

And yet, construction could offer more to new apprentices than first meets the eye. In joining the industry, they would pave the way for more innovative use of technology. The rising trend towards sustainability amongst developers would also align more with younger generations’ green values.

At Mackenzie Smith, we know a skilled workforce is crucial for the future of construction and property, so we’re keeping a close eye on these developments as they shape the local housing market.