Budget shows subtle signs of support for Scotland’s builders

The FMB has called for clarification and further details on how Scotland’s construction sector will be supported, following this week's Scottish Budget Statement

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has responded to the Scottish Budget statement, calling for clarification and further details on how Scotland’s construction sector will be supported.

Gordon Nelson, FMB Scotland director, said, “That the Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed an ongoing commitment to Scotland's high-quality apprenticeships is welcome, but there were no details as to what this means for the construction sector.

“Will this result in increased funding to support small- and medium-sized employers in building skilled workforces? We don’t know.

Nelson continued, “What we do know is that colleges will now benefit from a 10% increase in funding, but if businesses aren’t willing and able to recruit and train the next generation of builders, the jobs won’t be created.

“With a shortfall of 100,000 homes and ambitious net-zero targets, which means installing insulation and clean heating systems in homes, we urgently need to boost our building industry.

Nelson concluded, “The development of a comprehensive infrastructure plan alongside a capital investment programme for roads and buildings could help local builders, but the devil will be in the detail. That the Scottish National Investment Bank will receive continued support is welcome, but as outlined in our Growth from the Ground Up manifesto, it must develop more equitable funding and finance to support small housebuilders.”