About Us: An introduction to the BCIF
The Borders Construction Industry Forum aims to address the
need for the construction industry to change in order to deliver
future construction programmes successfully.
The industry in general is under threat and the role of the Forum is to provide
assistance to local companies so that they may best take advantage of the
opportunities available.
- Some 5% of the Border’s workforce, more than 2000
people,
are involved in construction, making it a major local employer.
- Turnover for the sector, including road building, is estimated
at around £145 million a year.
- Growing skills shortages and a poor image are threatening
the industry and will have an impact on the local economy
and communities.
Since our official launch in February 2003 membership of the
Forum continued to rise. It now covers a wide spectrum of the
construction industry and includes, architects, builders, quantity
surveyors, joiners, double glazing installers, electricians,
consultant engineers, plumbers, painters and decorators, plasterers,
roofers and even companies specialising in drystone dyking.
The Forum has received wide support from key organisations including Scottish
Enterprise Borders, Communities
Scotland and various training, careers and education bodies.
It is understood that the Scottish Executive is taking particular interest
in the Forum as the aims are in line with the strategic themes being considered
by the Modernising Construction Strategic Group.
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