The launch took place during the Deputy First Minister John Swinney’s visit to St Modan’s Academy in Stirling as part of a week-long ‘Build Your Future’ event. Facilitated by Construction Scotland as part of its Inspiring Construction programme, the event aimed to let pupils know about the huge and diverse range of careers available in the sector.

Scotland’s construction industry and its supply chain employs over 170,000 people – 10% of the Scottish workforce - with up to a further 60,000 self-employed workers. It contributes £21.5 billion to Scotland’s GDP, and makes up 10% of Scotland’s GVA. For every £1 spent on construction output, a further £2.94 is generated in the economy.

Prepared following extensive consultation with partner organisations, federations, businesses and government, the new strategy sets out priorities for the sector, for the areas which are most important to industry performance and growth. These are procurement reform, increasing skills and diversity, improving quality, supporting reform of planning and building regulations, improving productivity and profitability and facilitating sector growth.

Ken Gillespie, chair of Construction Scotland’s Industry Leadership Group, said: “Our new strategy focuses on the big issues and game-changers that are affecting our sector. To achieve progress in these six priority areas, the industry must come together collaboratively as never before.

“Construction Scotland will work with partners and customers in the industry across the public and private sectors to bring about positive change in these six areas. Each priority area will be addressed by an action plan for the industry, coordinated and facilitated by Construction Scotland, with key milestones and timescales for delivery.

“We will bring the industry and its customers to the table to address the challenges that face it in a constructive manner, and to facilitate the changes necessary for our industry to grow sustainably and profitably.”

Deputy First Minister John Swinney MSP said: “The construction industry is one of the largest providers of apprenticeships and the ‘Build Your Future’ event highlights the many opportunities available, from working to build new infrastructure, increase exports or reduce carbon emissions.

“As we step up our infrastructure investment, continue to deliver more affordable homes towards our 50,000 target and take forward plans for the Scottish National Investment Bank, we are supporting Construction Scotland’s refreshed strategy and fully endorse the ambition of being a more productive, innovative, profitable and sustainable industry.”

The full strategy document can be downloaded here.