The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has issued a manifesto with 12 key demands directed at the future UK government, emphasising the critical role of the construction sector in the economy.
- A financial incentive strategy is being urged to promote modern methods of construction, with a comprehensive plan expected within 100 days of the election.
- The CIOB highlights the advantages of offsite and modular construction but stresses that significant investment is essential.
- There’s an appeal for policy reforms, including business rate relief and a review of apprenticeship funding.
- The built environment GCSE introduction and equality commitments in contracts are also among the demands.
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has proactively positioned itself ahead of the forthcoming UK general election, presenting a manifesto that outlines 12 significant demands to the impending government. This manifesto serves not only to underscore the indispensable role of the construction industry but also to shape the sector’s trajectory with key policy reforms.
Central to the CIOB’s demands is the establishment of a financial incentive mechanism focused on modern methods of construction, notably offsite and modular construction. The institute stresses the importance of a detailed and practical strategy to be unveiled within 100 days post-election, recognising the transformative potential of these modern methods in enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving safety onsite. However, it underscores that these benefits are contingent upon securing considerable investment.
The manifesto further advocates for the implementation of business rate relief to stimulate the geographical clustering of construction enterprises, a move deemed necessary to invigorate local economies. Additionally, CIOB calls for a critical review of the apprenticeship funding model, aiming to refine how apprenticeships are financed and executed to better support the industry’s future workforce needs. It also advises extending the Prompt Payment Code to the private sector to alleviate the prevalent issue of delayed payments.
Recognising the need for inclusivity, the CIOB suggests that equality, diversity, and inclusion commitments be embedded within public sector contracts. Furthermore, the introduction of a GCSE focused on the built environment is proposed to nurture interest and expertise in future generations. The institute’s comprehensive strategy also addresses the necessity of reforming the current land-value system to provide fairer opportunities for small and medium-sized housebuilders, thus fostering a more equitable construction landscape.
CIOB Chief Executive Caroline Gumble has articulated a clear vision through this manifesto, urging engagement with parliamentary candidates to prioritise construction within political discussions. She asserts that the construction sector is a substantial economic driver and it is crucial to enlighten policymakers about the complexities and contributions of this pivotal industry segment.
The CIOB’s manifesto is a strategic call to action, pressuring the next government to prioritise construction reforms for future growth and sustainability.
