New research by the Homes Builders Federation (HBF) has revealed the importance of access to skilled EU workers post-Brexit.

In a survey of 37,167 workers across more than a thousand construction sites, the results revealed one in five people working on sites in England are from overseas, while more than half of workers on London sites are also from outside the UK.

Key results of the survey include;

• 19.7% of workers on house building sites across the country are ‘non UK'

• 56.3% of workers on London sites are from overseas

• Over 1 in 5 of workers in the SE are from overseas

• 17.9% of workers in the East of England and 10.5% in the SW are from overseas

• In Yorkshire/Humber just 1.8% are non UK; 5.9% in the NW

• 15% of bricklayers are non-UK workers (48.5% in London)

• Non UK workers tend to be younger with less as a % over 50


With the results suggesting the reliance of housebuilding on foreign workers is heavier than the wider construction industry, the survey reveals Post Brexit access to skilled labour is essential if the UK Government wants to achieve its target of delivering 300,000 new homes per year by 2025.

In addition, the industry also faces an increasing risk from an ageing workforce. With over 22% of UK passport holders working in the industry being over 50, only 10% of EU workers are in that age bracket. Around 70% from the EU are in the 20-39 age group compared to only around a half of those born in the UK.

As a result, ministers and officials as well as the Migration Advisory Committee are being asked to;

• Secure the status for existing employees as quickly as possible

• Ensure house building roles are represented in future immigration arrangements

Stewart Baseley, executive chairman of the Home Builders Federation said: "The results of this census clearly demonstrate the reliance the industry currently has on non UK workers. Output is up a massive 74% in recent years but achieving the very challenging targets set by Government will require further big increases in workforce capacity.

"Whilst the industry is investing heavily in recruiting and training young people leaving our schools, colleges and universities, continued access to overseas workers is absolutely essential."

To view the survey, visit here.

(LM/MH)