The creation of Build UK has been confirmed after the National Specialist Contractors Council (NSCC) and the UK Contractors Group (UKCG) approved a merger of the two organisations to provide a strong collective voice for the contracting supply chain in construction.
The new organisation will bring together 28 of the industry’s largest main contractors and nearly 40 leading trade associations, representing over 11,500 specialist contractors.
Talks between NSCC and UKCG first began in February 2015 and have resulted in the formation of what is intended to be a major force within the industry. Build UK will focus on key industry issues that will deliver change and improve conditions for the supply chain, the wider industry and its clients. The priority issues that have already been identified are fair payment, the image of the industry, health and safety, pre-qualification, and training and skills.
In a statement released on June 25, joint chairmen of Build UK, Kevin Louch and James Wates, said: “Our discussions in the run up to the merger have clearly shown that we share a common position on the majority of issues such as image, skills, health and safety, and procurement. Both Government and our clients have been waiting for a joined up approach from the industry and, as a single organisation for the contracting supply chain, we will pack a powerful punch and have a real chance to make some big changes.”
Nick Boles, minister of state for Business, Innovation and Skills said: “For businesses and Government, an investment in construction is an investment in improving UK productivity. The creation of Build UK is a very welcome development and places them in an influential position to continue improving performance across the sector.”
The new organisation will be led by chief executive Suzannah Nichol, with the support of Jo Fautley as deputy chief executive, and will be operational from September 1, 2015.
