Jessica Luper 25 September 2015

200,000 workers shortage for Northern Powerhouse plans

The Government's plan for a Northern Powerhouse could be under threat due to a 200,000 worker shortage, according to new research.

The concept of the Northern Powerhouse has been hailed by many within the industry as a great source of potential economic prosperity and construction development.

However, research by UK Construction Week reveals that there are simply not enough available workers on the ground.

Charlie Scherer, chief operating officer at residential construction business at Willmott Dixon said: 'While it is welcome news that devolution deals will likely increase development in the major northern hubs, there is much to be done if the industry is to have the capacity to make the most of the opportunities presented.

'Skills shortages are now equal to their pre-recession highs. Our industry is expected to grow by 2.9% every year for the next five years, creating 224,000 new jobs, but as we expect 400,000 people to retire in the same period a major gap is placing that growth in jeopardy.'

Chris Wood, CEO at Develop Training added: 'An aging and poorly trained workforce is a real problem facing the construction industry. Take the energy and utilities sector for example, 50% of the workforce is predicted to leave the industry by 2023, meaning 200,000 new recruits are needed to plug the gap.

'Without a marked increase in training provision, it is difficult to see how new construction opportunities will be delivered appropriately.'

The research shows a push must be made towards enabling young people to learn the skills required, making clear the benefits of a career in construction and making more apprenticeships available to attract a new generation to the industry.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Tea Time Club Assistant

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro-rata
Tea Time Club Assistant  Grade 1 £24,027 pro-rata Permanent 10 hours per week Required from September 2025 Would you like to work with a group of won Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Licensing Assistant

Durham County Council
£26,403 £28,598
The Community Protection Service is looking for 2 Licensing Assistants to join the Business Compliance Team    1 x Temporary for 1 year 1 x Temporary Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Lunchtime Supervisor

Durham County Council
£24,027 pro rata
Lunchtime Supervisor  Required from 1st September 2025 Grade 1    £24,027 pro rata Permanent We are seeking to appoint a Lunchtime Supervisor to join Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Child Protection Chair (Registered Social Worker)

North East Lincolnshire Council
Up to £48,710 dependent upon experience
We are seeking an Child Protection Chair who is a registered qualified and experienced Social Worker. North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council

Organisation and Service Designer

North East Lincolnshire Council
NJC34 £43,693
If you’re someone who can blend creative storytelling to inspire customers, staff and leaders North East Lincolnshire
Recuriter: North East Lincolnshire Council
Linkedin Banner