Trade association and its members say continued pipeline of young talent is “absolutely vital” for industry to grow and meet future housing needs

Scotland’s largest construction trade association has welcomed the Scottish Government’s Housing Emergency Action Plan – but has warned that it is “absolutely vital” for the country to have a pipeline of qualified and skilled professionals to deliver it.

SELECT has responded positively to the announcement of the new programme to tackle homelessness and deliver additional housing, including a £4.9 billion investment over the next four years for social and affordable housing.

But the 125-year-old body – which represents around 18,000 electrotechnical operatives and apprentices across Scotland – insists that a renewed commitment to training and apprenticeships is central to the long-term delivery of its aims.

Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “The Action Plan recognises the immediacy of the housing crisis in Scotland, but in order for it to be successfully delivered, the construction sector will need a pool of trained and skilled professionals that includes electricians.

“I know that many of our members are concerned about skills shortages we may face as this ambitious programme develops, and it is absolutely vital that the Scottish Government continues to support the training of electrical installation apprentices.

“SELECT has been a consistent advocate for the development of talent across the electrotechnical industry and as our homes become increasingly electrified we must be aware of, and address, future needs if the country’s housing ambitions are to be fully realised.”

SELECT board member Jim Cooper, who is Managing Director of Ayrshire-based Electro Installations, agreed that establishing and supporting a sustainable pipeline of electrical talent is of fundamental importance.

The Vice Chair of SELECT’s Ayrshire branch said: “I genuinely feel the industry will be in a critical period if it doesn’t ensure that enough skilled labour is coming through. Intervention from government is needed, and needed soon.

“Employers must of course play their part by taking on and training young people, but the government needs to take the  responsibility for ensuring that Scotland produces the skilled staff it needs for the industry to grow and successfully deliver ambitious plans like this.”

The Action Plan, unveiled by Cabinet Secretary for Housing Mairi McAllan on September 2, is designed to address the fact that Scotland has needed an additional 100,000 homes since 2008, calling on all partners in the housing sector to work with the Scottish Government on delivery.

The plan also envisages measures to mitigate rent increases, the introduction of rent controls and the adoption by Scotland next year of Awaab’s Law, which requires social landlords to address hazards including damp and mould.

It also proposes a new all-tenure housing delivery ambition, working with the housebuilding sector to increase delivery across all sectors by at least 10% each year over the next three years.