Construction Skills Network forecasts 2017-2021 - South East

The South East’s total construction output is forecast to rise by an annual average of 2.2% over the next five years, above the UK average of 1.7%. The region’s construction employment is anticipated to increase by an average yearly rate of 1.3%, around double the UK rate (0.6%), but at 1% of base 2017 employment, the region’s annual recruitment requirement (ARR) is below the UK rate of 1.4%.

• Growth is expected to focus on the commercial sector in the short term, by 6.5%
• Employment is forecast to grow by an annual average of 1.3% 
• The East of England has an annual recruitment requirement of 3,940

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 East are:

• Other construction professional and technical staff - 650
• Painters and decorators – 450
• Other construction process managers – 430
• Non construction professional, technical and IT staff - 350
• Construction project managers - 240

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.