Long-term recovery in the construction sector is likely to be limited unless young blood is encouraged to come on board, according to industry experts.
Leading construction figures from across the UK at a summit in Birmingham were in universal agreement the industry needs to tap into the talent of young people before it is too late.
Current market conditions and prospects for future growth in the sector were among talking points at the event held at the offices of architects Aedas, in partnership with accountancy firm Chantrey Vellacott DFK and ANECTO.
Representatives from Success Train, Bullock Construction, Rider Levett Bucknall, Colliers, eco2, Clarke Wilmott and BCRS were among 20 industry professionals who took part.
Paul Fenner, head of the national construction and property team at accountancy firm Chantrey Vellacott DFK, said succession planning is one of the major issues facing SMEs in the sector.
“Making sure young talent is coming through is vital, and at the moment it is not happening and businesses in the construction industry will suffer,” he said.
“It is important in all industries – but it is something which appears to be particularly afflicting construction.”
Marcus Wilkins, who heads up Aedas’ Midlands team, said the sector needs to engage young talent as soon as possible.
“We’ve got the best technical people and are the envy of the world and we need to build on this for the future,” he said.
