The Building Cost Information Service (BCIS) has urged the new Labour government to tackle the growing skills shortage in the construction industry to speed up critical housing and infrastructure projects. The Labour government plans to reduce dependency on overseas workers by focusing on upskilling the existing workforce in the UK and enhancing their working conditions. However, BCIS warns that this strategy may take time to bear fruit, delaying the availability of skilled workers needed on construction sites.
The Construction Industry Training Board estimates that an additional 152,000 workers are required to achieve Labour’s ambitious goal of building 1.5 million new homes. Dr David Crosthwaite, BCIS’s chief economist, expressed uncertainty over whether Labour can balance its short-term need for migrant workers with its long-term goal of expanding the domestic skills base.
The UK construction industry has struggled with a reduced workforce, losing a significant number of European workers post-Brexit, compounded by a decline in the domestic workforce since the pandemic. Although demand for construction has fallen due to a series of challenges—including rampant inflation, high borrowing costs, and geopolitical conflicts—this has temporarily masked the impact of the shrinking workforce. As demand recovers, the shortage of workers is expected to become increasingly problematic.
In the first quarter of 2024, the total employment in the construction sector was recorded at 2,078,926, with just over one-third being self-employed and the remaining two-thirds directly employed.
Hercules Site Services plc (LON:HERC) is a collaborative, innovative company delivering services of the highest standards within the Civil Engineering sector of the construction industry. Hercules Construction Academy provides a comprehensive range of courses designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required for a long and successful career in the construction industry.
