The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has reacted to today's Budget announcement.

David Barnes, head of policy and public affairs at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), said: “This Budget was an opportunity for the Government to set out how its ambitions for the built environment will translate into proper action through its devolution and local growth agenda.  

“Devolution must mean more than a transfer of powers or a change in governance. It must give local leaders the resources, long-term certainty, and capacity to deliver tangible improvements, including in housing, infrastructure and construction skills. We look forward to reading the finer details in 'The Fiscal Devolution Roadmap' to understand how long-term funding will work.

“We welcome efforts to reduce red tape and make it easier for businesses to operate. However, changes to business administration need to save time and resources rather than add unnecessary additional burdens. The Government must commit to reviewing its proposed changes to understand the impact they have on already time- and resource-poor organisations such as those in construction. The cost of employing people remains a concern for construction businesses, particularly SMEs. If rising employment costs outweigh the benefits of regulatory reform, employers will have less scope to recruit, invest in training and take on apprentices.

“Addressing persistent skills shortages and bringing more people into construction must be central to the Government’s plans. We welcome the £15m funding announced for the Leeds College of Building as an investment in construction training and the skilled workforce the country needs. However, this must form part of a sustained commitment to construction education nationwide. Colleges across the country are offering essential training for the sector which would also greatly benefit from targeted investment.

“Finally, attracting more people into construction is only part of the challenge. We must also ensure construction offers progression opportunities, with clear financial incentives for workers to develop their skills and move into more senior roles. Building a skilled workforce is essential to delivering the UK’s housing and infrastructure ambitions and that skilled workforce must be made up of people of all career levels.”