Despite construction output falling in February, it is likely demand for skilled construction workers will remain strong, says recruitment specialist…
Demand for skilled construction workers is likely to remain high despite a downturn in output. Earlier in the week, it was reported there had been a fall due to uncertainty surrounding the upcoming EU referendum.
An analysis from rail and construction recruitment specialist One Way said it expected businesses to become more confident following the referendum and for output to pick back up again.
Paul Payne, managing director of One Way, said: “There’s been some alarm in the media over the unexpected dip in output in February, however we’re not overly concerned.
“It’s hardly surprising that some firms have withheld their investment while there’s so much uncertainty over our position in the EU, however regardless of either outcome, we fully expect the market to pick back up over the coming months, particularly after the referendum has been decided.
“However, while the overall market has dropped slightly, it’s highly likely that demand for construction workers will remain strong across the board throughout this period and beyond.
“Not only is the continued demand for housebuilding driving many of the positions, but there’s also such a shortage of professionals in the market that many are able to choose between roles.
“In fact, once the market does pick up again we’re likely to find ourselves on the verge of a significant skills shortage which could affect productivity.
“While the media may pick up on a drop in output, it’s highly likely that construction experts won’t be affected.”
A shortage of skilled workers is undoubtedly the main calamity facing the sector, and is one that does not seem to be showing signs of major improvement. Jeremy Blackburn, Head of Policy at the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) said the government needs to act.
“There’s definitely more that the government can do, even though they’ve made certain commitments in areas like infrastructure.”
He added: “However construction firms are being constrained by the lack of labour, particularly in the trades.
“We lost a record number of skilled people during the recession and combined with the ageing workforce and many people who worked through this period now retiring there has been almost a double cliff in terms of labour shortage.”
