New figures have revealed an increase in the number of people employed in the construction industry in the south east when compared to the previous year…
Construction employment in the south east of England has seen significant growth over the past 12 months. Figures from the Department for Work and Pensions revealed around 40,000 more people were employed in the industry in 2015 when compared to the year before.
In fact, the entire UK saw significant growth in the sector, with 110,000 more jobs created and pay rising more than six per cent.
The news is undoubtedly welcomed after a mixed year for the construction sector. Plant equipment in particular had a difficult 12 months, with big firms Caterpillar and JCB laying off staff. However, suppliers saw a surge in demand for products due to infrastructure projects and the government’s programme of housebuilding.
Employment Minister Priti Patel said: “We’re ending 2015 on a real high. Employment is at a record high with 31.3 million people now in work, while unemployment is at its lowest since 2008, and wages are continuing to grow.
“This is fantastic news — and by helping people into work it means more families, up and down Britain, are enjoying the security of a regular paycheque and benefiting from our growing economy.”
The government forecasts the sector will continue to see growth, as billions of pounds is earmarked for the National Infrastructure Pipeline. Additionally, plans to create three million apprenticeships are also expected to boost the industry.
