'Once-in-a-generation chance to recruit and train the construction workforce'

Tim Balcon, CEO at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), responded to this week’s Spring Statement:

“Despite navigating an uncertain world, the Chancellor’s Spring Statement this week has been accompanied by two significant announcements for the construction industry. Firstly, the £600 million package for construction skills to catalyse the Government’s homebuilding target. Second, the £2 billion investment into affordable homes to accelerate delivery.

“As part of the construction skills package, CITB is providing £32 million to support the Government’s aim to fund over 40,000 industry placements each year. Additionally, we’ll be doubling the size of our New Entrant Support Team that helps make finding, recruiting and retaining an apprentice or new entrant easier for employers.

“The Government’s continued support for the construction industry through increased investment in construction skills is extremely welcome. As an industry, we need to collectively grasp this opportunity and be better at shouting about what a fantastic industry this is, the prospects it can offer people, and attracting people into pursuing a career in construction.

“I genuinely believe this is a once-in-a-generation chance to us to recruit and train our workforce – equipping more people with the skills they urgently need now and in the future.

“The Government aims to build 1.5 million new homes and approve 150 major infrastructure projects by the end of the decade – indeed, plans for Lower Thames Crossing were approved earlier this week. The opportunities aren’t just on the horizon, they’re in the here and now.”