The construction industry shows cautious optimism following the Labour Party’s sweeping victory in the general election.
- 52% of construction professionals anticipate increased work post-election but call for long-term ministerial stability.
- Concerns arise over Labour’s manifesto details, particularly on environmental policies and skilled labour shortages.
- Industry leaders emphasise the need for clear, detailed policy plans and realistic timelines under the new government.
- Housebuilders express support for Labour’s housing commitments but urge further action on safety and viability issues.
The construction sector’s response to the Labour Party’s landslide victory is a blend of optimism and caution. With 52% of construction professionals expecting more work opportunities post-election, there is a palpable anticipation of change. However, the sector remains wary, urging Labour to ensure ministerial stability. Eddie Tuttle from the Chartered Institute of Building argues for a long-term housing minister and suggests elevating the role to a cabinet position to ensure stability within the sector.
Concerns have been raised regarding the clarity of Labour’s manifesto pledges on environmental initiatives. Rico Wojtulewicz, from the National Federation of Builders, stresses the need for detailed policy plans and realistic timelines. The business community, represented by Peter Hogg of Arcadis, echoes the need for governmental certainty rather than impulsive reforms, stressing that both businesses and investors require a steady and predictable policy environment.
The importance of a long-term vision was highlighted by Chris Cassley of the Construction Plant-hire Association. He emphasises addressing decarbonisation, productivity, as well as housing and infrastructure needs. Similarly, John Newcomb of the Builders Merchants Federation sees Labour’s clear objectives as a positive start and looks forward to their implementation.
The construction industry eagerly anticipates the implementation of Labour’s ambitious environmental goals. The Building Research Establishment’s Gillian Charlesworth expresses enthusiasm for the green agenda, while Premier Modular Group’s David Harris questions the feasibility of achieving net zero amidst infrastructure developments. The Electrical Contractors’ Association flags a shortage of skilled electricians as a potential barrier to meeting environmental targets, urging immediate attention to the skills system.
In the civil engineering sector, organisations stand ready to collaborate with Labour to bolster economic growth, as voiced by Marie-Claude Hemming of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association. Meanwhile, Michael Riordan from Linesight praises Labour’s plans to expedite data centre developments. However, construction and legal sectors express concerns about Labour’s housing strategies, particularly the omission of essential safety and viability measures from their priorities.
The skills shortage in the industry prompts calls for government intervention. Leaders like Justin Young of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors advocate for a built environment taskforce to guide workforce needs. Paul Dodsworth of Caddick Construction and Trevor Wilkins of PAH Building & Construction emphasise the necessity for government action on the apprenticeship levy and support for SMEs to close the skills gap exacerbated by Brexit.
The construction industry anxiously anticipates clear policies and stability from the new Labour government.
