The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has committed to investing just under £5 million in 15 industry-led projects.

The investment represents the second funding announcement since CITB began is project funding process last autumn. Overall, the organisation is supporting 36 projects valued at over £12m.

One of the successful bids was Liverpool-based roofs Lacy Roofing, who will receive £15,000 to rain five staff members to fly drones to the Civil Aviation Authority standard.

The project, 'Robots for Roofing', is the first scheme of its kind to receive CITB funding. The drones will be used to carry out surveys and find faults in roofs, rather than using employees to carry out these tasks.

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CITB added if the pilot project is successful, similar techniques could be rolled out across the industry.

Other successful bids came from Mitie Property Services, who want to train and support 60 adults with high-functioning autism or similar disabilities to work in the construction industry, and from Kier who want to promote the construction sector to career changers and under-represented groups.

Geeta Nathan, Head of Economic Analysis at CITB, said: "I am excited to announce the latest round of industry-led projects that will receive support from CITB. These high-calibre applicants have the potential to transform the industry and change the lives of many individuals, and we are pleased to be supporting them with industry investment.

"It's inspiring to think of the impact these projects may have not only in the near future but also in years to come."

For the full list of successful bids, visit here.

(LM/MH)