Scottish builders seek government support

SBF chief executive Michael Levack spoke at the recent 2010 Scottish construction conference saying the economic downturn has had an ‘unprecedented’ impact on Scotland’s building industry.

Mr Levack said: ‘2009 was a very tough year for our industry. And we face further challenges in 2010. How quickly construction pulls out of the current recession will be largely determined by our politicians.

‘It’s high time the huge contribution the building industry makes to the Scottish economy, to providing jobs and to supporting Scotland’s skills agenda was properly recognised.’

Mr Levack said Scottish construction output had fallen by 12 per cent over the year to September 2009.

He suggested:

• Further resources be channelled towards funding major capital projects over the coming year
• A government-owned company, the Scottish Futures Trust, be set up to improve public infrastructure investment – mobilising extra funding for new schools, hospitals, social housing and infrastructure
• Concerted action to streamline planning and public procurement, accelerating planning decisions and cutting down on red tape
• Targeted government support to help retain apprenticeship places specifically in the construction sector
• More money to the Home Insulation Programme to help the Scottish Government meet its target of cutting carbon emissions by 80 per cent by 2050
• Cutting VAT on home improvement and repair works to 5 per cent
• Creating a post for a Scottish minister dedicated to championing the construction industry.

Last week the Scottish Parliament approved its budget for 2010/11, which cuts the government’s housing and regeneration spend by £178.7 million, from £626.7 million allocated this year.

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