​The recent transition to a Labour government brings a renewed focus on the built environment sector, with major infrastructure projects and the skills needed to deliver these projects purportedly high on the agenda. This article explores the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, as well as what we can expect from the new government’s policies and their impact on recruitment in the sector.

Kent Streek, Department Manager for Carrington West’s nuclear division says, “From what we have heard so far, one of the Labour government’s key priorities is the development of major infrastructure projects aimed at boosting the UK economy and improving public services. This is good news for those who possess the necessary skills and who will likely be able to easily pick up contract work or find permanent positions that meet their requirements.”

Some of the most prominent projects that have been announced include:

Clean Air Energy Initiatives: The Labour government has committed to a significant increase in green energy projects. This includes offshore wind farms, solar power developments, nuclear and investment in hydrogen energy. These projects are essential for meeting the UK’s net-zero targets by 2050.

Affordable Housing: Addressing the housing crisis is another critical area. Labour has announced plans to overhaul the planning system, achieve ambitious housing targets involving the design and build of thousands of additional and affordable homes each year. This initiative will not only provide much-needed housing but also stimulate the construction sector.

Public Transport Infrastructure: Enhancing public transport networks, including improving the performance of the railways, bus services and cycling infrastructure are high on the agenda. These projects aim to reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.

To deliver against goals, there are clear sets of skills that will be needed, which will put pressure already depleted technical talent pool. These will include project management and digital skills, as well as the engineering and technical skills that are already in short supply post pandemic and post Brexit.

Kent goes on to say, “in the nuclear sector, there are already shortages of qualified and experienced civil, mechanical and safety case engineers for existing projects as well as decommissioning. Projects are often slow to get off the ground as new talent into the sector has to wait for lengthy security clearances.”

Sustainability skills will also be in demand to enable housing and building construction as well as infrastructure providers, meet carbon net zero goals. These skills are becoming increasingly coveted by employers in almost all sub sectors of built environment planning and project delivery.

Kevin O’Shea, Carrington West Department Manager for town planning, housing and property, says sustainability is embedded into planning practice already, however, “there has been a gradual increase over the past few years of roles with overall responsibility for sustainability, with a notable increase in demand within regeneration.”

How can we meet demand?

The Labour government has already outlined several policies aimed at addressing these challenges and supporting recruitment, these include

• Investment in Skills and Training: Labour has announced increased funding for apprenticeships and vocational training programmes. This investment is designed to bridge the skills gap and ensure a steady supply of qualified professionals for the built environment sector.

• Support for SMEs: Recognising the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in driving innovation and economic growth, Labour plans to provide financial support and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for these businesses. This support will help SMEs participate in large infrastructure projects and contribute to their successful delivery.

• Sustainable Development Goals: The government’s commitment to sustainable development is reflected in its policies promoting green energy and sustainable construction. Labour aims to introduce incentives for adopting eco-friendly practices and reducing carbon footprints across the sector.

• Regional Development: To address regional disparities, Labour is focusing on regional development initiatives. This includes tailored support for infrastructure projects in underdeveloped areas, ensuring balanced economic growth and improved living standards nationwide.

One area that Carrington West has long worked in is highways. With a focus on transport networks and housing, many in the sector are hoping for clarity around the direction the industry will go in.

Adam Butler, Carrington West Team Leader working in the highways sector, concludes, “Any incoming government will have their own set of priorities which will inevitability lead to a short period of adjustment which in turn impacts recruitment. However, despite the cancellation of some major highways projects such as the Stonehenge tunnel, the renewed focus on housing targets and expanding bus services, will mean there will be still be highways projects forging forward.”