By David Ascott, Commercial Director

Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister, has unveiled an ambitious plan to build 1.5 million homes over the next five years—a crucial step in addressing the UK’s housing shortage. However, there’s a major roadblock standing in the way: a severe workforce crisis in the construction industry.

As someone deeply involved in the AEC sector, I see first-hand how skill shortages are delaying projects and driving up costs. Without urgent intervention, this housing target may remain an aspiration rather than a reality.

The Root of the Crisis

For years, the construction industry has grappled with a shrinking workforce. This is the result of several key factors:

• Brexit: A significant reduction in EU migrant workers, who previously made up a large portion of the workforce.
• An Ageing Workforce: Many skilled professionals are reaching retirement age, with too few younger workers to replace them.
• Declining Apprenticeship Uptake: A lack of investment in training and apprenticeships has left the industry struggling to attract new talent.
• The Perception Problem: Careers in architecture, engineering, construction, and surveying are often undervalued compared to other industries, making recruitment even more challenging.

This issue extends beyond traditional construction roles. The UK geomatics sector—critical for accurate site data and digital construction workflows—is also facing a talent shortfall. With the rise of BIM, digital twins, and geospatial technology, demand for skilled surveyors is growing, yet not enough new professionals are entering the field at the pace required.

What Needs to Change?

If the government is serious about hitting its housing targets, it must take decisive action to address this crisis. Key solutions include:

• Greater Investment in Training & Apprenticeships – Making vocational education more accessible and attractive to young people.
• Industry-Government Collaboration – Creating incentives for businesses to upskill existing workers and recruit apprentices.
• Stronger Promotion of AEC Careers – Highlighting the value and opportunities available in construction, surveying, and engineering.

Our Commitment at Surveybase

At Surveybase, we recognise the need for long-term solutions. That’s why we’re investing in apprenticeship programmes to train the next generation of surveyors. By providing hands-on experience and expert mentorship, we’re helping to build the skilled workforce needed to sustain the industry.

However, solving the workforce crisis requires a collective effort. Government policies must align with industry needs to create a robust talent pipeline. Without meaningful investment and collaboration, the UK construction sector will struggle to meet demand—putting vital infrastructure and housing projects at risk.

The time to act is now. If we don’t address this issue today, we’ll be dealing with its consequences for years to come.

FIND OUT MORE

If you would like to find out more about our Precision Digital Surveying services please visit our Website or contact your local Surveybase; Bristol 01225 314370, Birmingham 01212 723178, Reading 0118 2072508, London 02039 066892 or Cambridge 01223 632613.

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