London Stone commend funding proposal to help 500 London construction workers back into work
 
 
 
 

London Stone, specialist suppliers of natural paving and bespoke stone products, has responded to news that £2m funding is to be used to help unemployed construction workers back into jobs

In a joint venture between the CITB and London Enterprise Panel (LEP), funds have been allocated to provide training, support and work placements for unemployed workers, following demand from a growing construction industry throughout the UK and particularly in London.

In addition to the 500 unemployed workers needed to meet current demands, there will be a call for an extra 1,300 skilled construction workers per year to achieve the requirements of Greater London’s construction plans through to 2019. According to research by the CITB, over 6,450 new workers will need to be found to operate in the capital over the next five years.

Helping to get the 500 construction workers back into full time roles, the funding will also provide a shared working scheme for a hundred unemployed individuals and assist 700 people who currently work for sub-contracted companies to develop specialist skill sets.

Janette Welton-Pai, CITB sector strategy manager, said: “It’s an ambitious and unique programme, but most importantly it implements a new approach to addressing skills and training needs.”

Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London and chair of the LEP was clear to point out the importance of sourcing more construction workers in London, stating: “Cranes can be seen on every corner of the capital’s skyline. The construction industry needs thousands of new workers every year to keep pace with demand. It is a fantastic time to start work in the construction sector.”

London-based stone specialists London Stone regularly react to industry-related research, policy and news. Their company spokesperson believes that the call for more construction workers is a good sign, suggesting the funding will lead to more enterprising initiatives on behalf of the nation’s capital:

“Allocated funds to assist unemployed construction workers back into jobs are great, not just as a direct reflection of London’s expansion and regeneration but also because they offer a chance for 500+ individuals to receive gainful employment and increase their worth to the city.

“The demand for growth will only present businesses like London Stone with more opportunities to provide construction sector workers with our own high quality stone materials, making it a win-win for all in the building/construction industry.”

Established in 2005 by brothers Gavin, Steven & Duncan Walley, London Stone provide a comprehensive array of stone paving and products for projects of all descriptions. Head over to their website at www.londonstone.co.uk to start shopping for quality stone now.