Inspiring and training the next generation of construction talent is a responsibility that rests on all our shoulders – and there is a great deal at stake. We are seeing a projected shortfall of 250,000 workers by 2028, while the expectations of what the industry needs to deliver – from data centres and advanced manufacturing to clean energy infrastructure – are getting ever greater. This widening gap between resources and expectations risks becoming even more critical over the next few years.

Labour is pushing for growth, and mobilising policy to secure it. This includes changes to planning, regulation and funding. However, we need to recognise that, without skills investment and the right approach, construction will not be able to become the critical enabler of growth that it could be.

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