Scotland ‘No’ Vote Allows Construction in the UK to Push Forward

So after the long wait, Scotland has voted to stay in the United Kingdom. The alternative of course, would have had an unknown and probably negative effect on the construction industry in the UK.

Over half of leaders of top contractors stated that Scottish independence would have a negative impact, so for construction professionals seeking confidence in the market and perhaps a new job this could be good news. 

So here goes with a quick round up of some of the more interesting developments.

Housing continues to expand, supported by economy strengthening and the needs from an increasing population, with some house builders being mentioned as possible takeover targets. Also, regional firms across the country are being urged to bid for more than £10bn worth of contracts to build the first phase of high speed 2. 

A stand out contract award since my last blog is the award to a major UK main contractor to redevelop the old BBC Television Centre in West London. The iconic doughnut shape building is to be redeveloped into a £400m mixed use scheme consisting of offices, apartments, gym and cinema.

As well as the BBC building conversion, the Government have given the go-ahead for the £4bn Thames Super Sewer, involving a construction of a £25km tunnel that will run from West London to East London, with a storage capacity of 1,250,000 cubic metres. Construction is expected to start in 2016 and to be completed by 2023.

I should also mentioned some bad news, in that Nottingham University’s Laboratory has been burnt down, which was under construction by a market leading contractor in the UK. With a project value of £16m, the project was largely completed and due to open next year. Nottingham University have responded positively, and mentioned that their plans are strong to rebuild the project, whether it be on the same site or not.

All in all, month by month, there seems to be more good news coming our way regarding the UK construction industry so feel free to get in touch with a CV via the Maxim Website if you feel are considering a career change in the near future.

Adam Cadwaladr
Maxim Recruitment
UK Office