Construction Skills Network forecasts 2017-2021 - Scotland

Scotland’s construction industry is set for growth in most sectors over the next five years, although infrastructure will decline following record highs. Overall construction output in Scotland is due to contract by 0.4% a year in the five years to 2021. This lack of growth is almost entirely due to the drop in the level of infrastructure activity, with the completion of several major projects such as the Queensferry Crossing.  

Infrastructure levels in Scotland have operated at exceptionally high levels, accounting for 29% of output in 2015, against 15% for the UK as a whole. If infrastructure was removed from the forecast, overall output would average growth of 1% a year.

• Growth is expected to focus on the Private housing sector at 5.7%
• Employment in Scotland is forecast to decline by an annual average of 0.8% 
• The annual recruitment requirement for Scotland is 2,340 

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 Scotland, are:

• Non construction professional, technical and IT staff - 500
• Plumbing and HVAC trades people - 310
• Labourers  – 300
• Construction trades supervisors – 170
• Other construction process managers - 150

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.