New research has revealed more than £30 billion worth of construction projects are being carried out in London.

Data gathered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) states as well as major infrastructure schemes being delivered such as HS2 and Thames Tideway, over 700 big projects are planned so far up to 2020. The greatest level of construction activity is in housing, private commercial developments, public non-housing and infrastructure.

With the report suggesting levels of new construction activity each year to 2020 will sit at around £30bn per annum, concerns have been raised over potential skills gaps in the industry.

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Occupations with the greatest risk of a shortfall include plant mechanics/fitters, scaffolders and bricklayers, steel erectors and roofers. However, the CITB said London's tradition of recruiting workers from other regions such as the South East is expected to reduce the skills pressures "considerably".

Janette Welton-Pai, Partnerships Manager, CITB said: "While it remains unclear how Brexit might impact the workforce, as an industry we need to look closely at training and development across Greater London to minimise risk. The new Construction Academy announced recently will help grow the skills base that's critical to the success of construction in the capital."

Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and Skills at the Greater London Authority said: "London's construction industry is booming and we need workers to fill these skilled positions.

"The further education and skills sector has a vital role to play in making sure all Londoners can truly be part of London's prosperity.

"Through the Construction Academy Scheme, we will be giving Londoners the chance to train in the skills that will boost our economy and creating a pipeline of local talent and expertise for construction businesses to tap into.”

(LM/MH)