The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has become a member of the government’s Northern Powerhouse Partner Programme.
The CIOB has over 6,000 accredited members based in the north and is helping to provide the skills and expertise to transform the built environment across the region. This includes the development of high-profile healthcare facilities, transportation systems and educational establishments.
Eddie Tuttle, the CIOB’s director of policy, research and public affairs, said: "The importance of construction in developing the Northern Powerhouse cannot be ignored. And the quality of our buildings has a lasting impact on the wellbeing of individuals and communities across the region.
“Construction activity in the north is booming and jobs in the sector are also in high demand with around 5,500 new recruits being needed each year, many of which fall on the professional side.
"The Northern Powerhouse brings together many of the companies and organisations with the expertise to continue developing the region and driving forward not just growth but improvements in quality, sustainability and career prospects in the construction sector and the wider economy.”
Minister for the Northern Powerhouse, Jake Berry, said: “Building and developing modern infrastructure fit for the 21st century is a vital component of our vision for boosting economic growth and driving prosperity throughout the Northern Powerhouse.
“I’m thrilled to welcome the Chartered Institute of Building as our latest Northern Powerhouse Partner and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together.”
Barbara Entwistle, chair of the CIOB’s Lancashire and Cumbria hub, said: “We have great opportunities within the construction industry; you only have to observe the number of tower cranes in the region to know that investment is taking place in both the private sector and the public sector. We need to make the most of the skills we have in construction, utilise our knowledge and help drive improvements in transportation, investments in science and a push towards economic growth. In any plan to grow the region’s economy, construction is a huge contributor and I’m looking forward to being involved in the Northern Powerhouse Partnership.”
