The next Welsh Government must back builders to help re-build a more prosperous and greener post-Covid economy, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) Cymru.
Today, FMB Cymru launches its Programme for Welsh Government 2021 – 2026 which includes key asks based on a recent survey of builders in Wales. The survey asked builders to rank their priorities in order of importance to their business. The most popular answers were:
1. Reform the planning system to provide local firms with more opportunities to build homes within their own communities.
2. Increase investment in vocational skills training to ensure that building companies have access to the skilled labour they require.
3. Incentivise homeowners to carry out energy efficiency measures in their homes, and ensure that local builders are at the heart of delivering this work.
Ifan Glyn, Director of FMB Cymru said: “The next Welsh Government must put local builders at the heart of their plans to rebuild our post-Covid economy. Builders stand ready to deliver the homes that we need, train the next generation of tradespeople, and to drive our green revolution. However, after what has been a very challenging year, they need greater support to do so.”
Glyn concluded: “This year, the FMB celebrates its 80th anniversary after it was founded by a consortia of small building firms looking to work together to re-build our nation after the Blitz. It is fitting that 80-years on, builders will again have a crucial role to play in re-building our country from the impact of Covid. With the right support from Welsh Government, I have every confidence that they will again step-up.”
The key asks made in this document are based on the results of a survey of FMB Cymru members conducted between 18 February and 2 March 2021.
Notes to editors
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing thousands of firms in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Established in 1941 to protect the interests of small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, the FMB is independent and non-profit making, lobbying for members’ interests at both the national and local level.
The FMB is a source of knowledge, professional advice and support for its members, providing a range of modern and relevant business building services to help them succeed. The FMB is committed to raising quality in the construction industry and offers a free Find a Builder service to consumers.
