Construction and the built environment
The construction sector is vital in contributing to the national economy. It is closely linked to the economy and it is the first to be affected by any economic downturn. Already there have been substantial job losses and many companies are less willing to take on permanent employees in case they need to make job cuts.
In the East of England the construction industry accounts for 8% of total employment, with around 150,000 employees. 47% of these are aged between 25 and 44. There are approximately 34,500 businesses, with almost 94% employing 10, or fewer, people.
A large number of people employed in construction work for small businesses or are self-employed.
The three largest occupational categories in the East of England are currently wood trades, managers and plumbers.
Apprenticeships are a useful way of learning an occupation in this sector. You can train while working and earning a living. However, recent increased interest in Apprenticeships has led to strong competition for places. Carpentry and joinery and plumbing are particularly popular.
How much could I earn?
Architect, Town Planner, Surveyor £39,854
Bricklayer, Mason £22,664
Carpenter/Joiner £24,429
Draughtsperson, Building Inspector £27,324
Painter & Decorator £22,654
Plasterer £21,501
Roofer, Roof Tiler, Slater £22,033
*Salary rates have been calculated using the average gross pay rates for full time workers. Figures are for the United Kingdom. Averages can hide higher earnings. With training and career development, higher salaries can be achieved. Source: Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings 2009, O.N.S., © Crown Copyright.
What we think will happen
The economic slowdown has meant that there has been a significant reduction in house building and so available jobs.
This sector has around 56,000 unqualified workers in the East of England. Between 2002 and 2012, 35,000 of those working in skilled construction trades will have retired. 5,000 extra jobs are likely to be created to support the Olympic games 2012 building programme.
Managers, electrical staff, architects and technical staff are expected to be in demand over the next five years.
Females are under-represented locally, making up only 5% of the construction workforce.
New qualifications, called Diplomas, are being introduced. These will help people prepare for university, college or work. There will be a Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment. Look out to see whether it’s on offer in your area.
Certain facts/figures are reproduced under the terms of the Click-Use Licence. © Red Bridge Solutions Ltd (www.redbridgesolutions.co.uk) December 2009
More information is contained in the pdf below.