Struggling building sector needs support
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THIS month has unfortunately seen the collapse of UBC Group and the loss of jobs in all of its subsidiaries, except for Wyvis Roofing, which was saved following a management buyout.
UBC’s collapse is a real blow to the local construction industry — but more significantly shattering to the families of those affected.
There is no doubt that the construction sector in particular is finding the current economic climate challenging and we need to see more done to support it.
More infrastructure investment, more affordable homes and more help to ensure apprentices are taken on to complete their training. We also need to ensure the economic benefit of any public contract awarded is considered and that local communities not only benefit from the construction of any new facilities but that as many local jobs as possible are also supported.
Of course there are challenges in the economy, but we must not lose sight of the real potential for the Highlands and Islands to be a leader in the energy sector, and for the area to be a hub for business outsourcing, food and drink and life sciences.
We need to promote not just the Highlands’ natural assets but also the skilled and dependable workforce we have here.
We need to ensure local people are aware of the opportunities now and the likely prospects for future.
Businesses, public agencies and skills providers have to to work together to ensure the talents of people across the area are harnessed and that they are equipped with the right skills to meet business needs.
The Scottish Council for Development and Industry will continue to bring private, public and third sector organisations together to look at what steps need to be taken to support economic growth, and how we can help break down barriers to it.
At a local level in SCDI, we were pleased to welcome two new faces to our Highlands and Islands committee this month.
Alastair Kennedy of Global Energy Group and Chris Gaffney of Johnstons of Elgin joined us.
Alastair and Chris bring with them a lot of experience, and their addition to our committee will ensure SCDI’s broad membership base is well represented and ensures our voice is even stronger.
SCDI was also delighted last week to announce the appointment of our first female president, Lady Susan Rice, the managing director of Lloyds Banking Group Scotland.
She brings a breadth of experience, has a passion for financial and social inclusion and will help to ensure SCDI continues as Scotland’s leading economic development organisation.
Now, more than ever, we need to work together to realise the potential of the area, and with our new leadership and bolstered Highland committee, we will continue to ensure that the challenges and opportunities of the Highlands and Islands are recognised.
