Construction Skills Network forecasts 2017-2021 - South West

Construction output in the South West is projected to grow at an annual average rate of 3.1% in the five years to 2021, the second fastest rate after Wales. The region will benefit from new nuclear build over the forecast period. The annual average employment growth is predicted to be 0.7%, slightly higher than the UK rate of 0.6%.

• Growth is expected to focus on the infrastructure sector at 34.9% in the short term
• Employment is forecast to grow by an annual average of 0.7% 
• The South West has an annual recruitment requirement of 4,180

What does this mean for construction jobs? 

This means that demand for some trades will be higher than others. The jobs most in demand over the next five years, in the South West are:

• Non-construction professional, technical and IT staff – 1,080
• Senior, executive, and business process managers – 380
• Wood trades and interior fit-out staff – 370
• Plasterers – 270
• Bricklayers – 250

What’s CITB doing to bridge the gap? 

We’re committed to helping construction employers deliver the pipeline of work faster, better and more efficiently. Using our evidence base on skills requirements, we will ensure employers can access the high quality training their workforce needs. 

We will also help construction attract and retain new recruits. Working with industry we’ve launched Go Construct, a web portal showcasing all of the great career opportunities available in our sector.

CITB is also improving our funding to employers, through a reformed grants scheme that invests in the most needed skills and makes it easier for companies of all sizes to access funding.

How can you benefit? 

If you’re keen on building and want a fulfilling and financially rewarding career delivering some of the iconic projects in your area, visit Go Construct.

To find out how to access grants to train your workforce, visit CITB funding.