NEWLY released data has revealed that the value of planned public sector construction projects in Scotland has risen by £600 million to £12.2 billion.
The figure was revealed after the Construction Pipeline Forecast Tool had its latest six-month data refresh. The number of businesses registered for updates has now reached 900.
Launched in July 2021 to provide the industry with greater knowledge of future projects across Scotland, the Construction Pipeline Forecast Tool’s half-yearly update has provided details of over 1,700 projects. Almost 50 public bodies are registered, supplying details of projects across 18 industry sectors.
Managed by the Scottish Futures Trust, the forecast tool was one of the actions coming from the Scottish Construction Leadership Forum’s Recovery Plan.
The pipeline is designed to give a longer-term view on planned investment up to 2028, with the majority of the forecast spending occurring before 2025. It allows users to study the data using various criteria including the chosen procurement route, procuring authority, contract value, and sector.
The types of construction projects include new build, refurbishments, and maintenance across sectors such as roads, health, education, housing and cultural and heritage.
Of the 1,718 projects, 55% are below £2 million in value, emphasising the opportunities for SMEs. The updated pipeline also contains details of over 90 construction-related frameworks across Scotland that businesses can apply to join when they come to be refreshed.
Peter Reekie, chief executive of the Scottish Futures Trust, said, “With over 900 businesses registered on the Construction Pipeline Forecast Tool, many are reaping the benefits of having up-to-date information at their fingertips, allowing them to tender for public sector projects. Critically, the pipeline also encourages greater collaboration between public sector bodies allowing them all to see details of their respective investment pipelines and where strong partnerships can be built to deliver improved efficiencies.”
Scottish Government business minister Ivan McKee commented, “Scotland’s construction industry is a significant contributor to the economy and the Scottish Government is working with the sector, through the Construction Leadership Forum, to ensure it continues to transform and grow in a sustainable way. The Construction Pipeline Forecast Tool is providing a transparent forecast on anticipated work across the public sector. This is giving businesses the confidence to plan ahead with investment, upskilling, and if needed, increasing their workforce for any tender process.
“In line with the recently launched Construction Accord, the Pipeline Tool is further supporting greater collaboration within the supply chain and improving outcomes for the businesses and workforce which make up the construction and associated industries.’’
The Scottish Futures Trust will be hosting a webinar on 2 March to provide new and existing users with an introduction to the tool and the insights that have been gained, with details to be posted on the Scottish Futures Trust social media platforms when details are confirmed.
