The Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum has launched a consultation to examine what shape the post-pandemic construction industry in Scotland should take.
The consultation, which takes the form of a wide-ranging questionnaire, asks construction companies about multiple issues that CICV said have not gone away during the pandemic, as they begin a phased return to work.
Forum chair and Select managing director Alan Wilson, said: ”All too often we are told that a body or organisation is the ‘voice’ of a sector but to be the voice, first of all you must listen to what members are saying.
“Being the ‘ears of the industry’ is a concept often sadly forgotten and this piece of work aims do just that – listening to what the industry wants before suggesting options for change.”
The consultation is being led by consultant Len Bunton, and has been compiled with the input of four quantity surveying firms, as well as Ian Honeyman, commercial director of the Scottish Building Federation, and Ken Lewandowski, former local chairman of Clydesdale Bank.
Bunton said: “We want to look at the endemic problems of low tendering, no margins and the lack of regard for competency and experience. Serious cashflow and payment issues, poor quality and health and safety problems are also consistent concerns for the industry.
“We also need to consult with public and private sector clients who are the lifeblood of the industry, as their investment creates employment for the construction sector in Scotland.”
He added: “The consultation makes the point that the CICV Forum, which was quickly and efficiently assembled to deal with the ongoing effects of the shutdown, has demonstrated the desirability of disparate parties coming together to work for the mutual benefit of the sector.”
The CICV is made up of trade associations, professional services bodies, companies and individuals, including the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). It came into being in March with advice on how to operate safely while carrying out emergency or essential work.
It has since been drawing on the collective expertise of its members to maintain a supply of information and practical advice to the sector as well as carrying out surveys, producing animations and posters, hosting webinars and speaking regularly with government ministers.
