CITB Forecasts an Increase in Building Activity

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has published its report, Construction Workforce Outlook 2026–2030. The annual forecast predicts an acceleration in growth following weaker market conditions this year. However, it also warns that the sector continues to lose workers without adequate replacement. What is the current state of building activity, and how will it impact the industry in the future?

The main source: CITB predicts construction demands

What is the current situation?

Construction output is forecast to change by -0.2% this year, before increasing to 1.8% in 2027 and 2.8% in 2028. The strongest growth during this period is expected in new public housing construction, followed by new private housing and infrastructure projects. CITB states that too few people are entering the sector. Also, too many experienced workers are leaving, and productivity improvements are not sufficient to close the gap. This will increasingly put pressure on the industry’s ability to deliver housing, infrastructure, and retrofit commitments.

However, the report adds that recent initiatives. One of them – government’s £600 million investment to support construction training, together with additional funding schemes such as the Youth Guarantee and Employment Guarantee. Their aim is to help young people find work, demonstrate a willingness to support the sector.

How will increases in building activity influence the construction industry in the future?

The construction industry expects higher levels of activity and, consequently, an increase in the number of projects and contracts. In 2025, the UK construction sector employed 2,606,380 people. This figure is expected to rise to 2,681,800 by 2030. To meet this demand, the sector will need to recruit an average of 41,200 workers each year. It`s equivalent to 1.6% of the current construction workforce.

Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of CITB, said: “Our latest Construction Workforce Outlook highlights where demand for construction skills is expected to grow, providing the evidence needed for workforce and skills planning during a period of significant opportunities and challenges. The construction industry faces the challenge of balancing short-term business uncertainty while ensuring that enough skilled workers are available to meet the anticipated demand created by long-term employment opportunities.”

Fencyx, as one of the leading wholesale suppliers in the UK construction industry, is following this situation closely. Increasing activity within the construction sector and attracting more people into the industry will have a positive impact on its future development.

Read also: CITB Increases Apprenticeships