Following the General Election the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has called on the coalition between the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats to take forward the UK by investing in the construction industry.

Chris Blythe Chief Executive of the CIOB said: "After all the rhetoric and with so many key issues facing construction, the industry will be wondering what it can expect from this coalition Government. We are entering unchartered waters and only time will tell if it is a success.

"But there has to be a sense of optimism that the political differences between the parties can be harnessed for real progress, and not used as a weapon against change. Strong leadership and strong partnerships will be needed.

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"What is clear is that if we are to go back to a pattern of consistent economic growth, there needs to be a sustained programme of national investment. The physical infrastructure of this country underpins the entire economic and social infrastructure.

"Investment in the built environment can spread the benefits of an economic stimulus to all parts of the UK. For every £1 spent on construction output, £2.84 is generated in total economic activity, and 92p of every £1 spent on construction is retained in the UK."

The CIOB believes there are some positive noises around the skills agenda and in particular apprenticeships and graduates.

Mr Blythe continued: "The last recession taught us that if we neglect training and educating our workforces we will suffer in the long-term; and hinder our ability to react to any upturn in the economy. There is also a huge opportunity to develop the low carbon skills that the industry needs to meet the green agenda

"Unlike the debates, this government’s success will be measured by its ability to turn the words into substance."

(CD/GK)