The Department for Education has finally published the government’s response to consultant Mark Farmer’s 2023 review of the role of the Industry Training Boards.
Among its 17 key recommendations, the 211-page report concludes that the industry training board model should be retain but that “its strategic priorities, core capabilities and activity require wholesale transformation” to address the “fundamental workforce resilience challenges”.
The ITBs’ levy-grant system should also be retained but, again, ‘modernised and refocused’: “Smart KPI should be developed, aimed at maximising output from levy spend with more balanced accountability between industry and government,” the report says.
Most radically, perhaps, the report recommends that the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) “should be merged into a single rebranded body tasked with improving workforce resiliency through a single combined strategy”.
The Minister of State for Skills, Jacquie Smith (now Baroness Smith of Malvern), supported many of the recommendations laid out in the report, including that the ITB model should be retained, but rejected the idea of a merger.
She said the government’s position is that while there are significant benefits to greater alignment and collaboration between the two ITBs, there are currently no plans to legislate to create a single body.
A steering group will be set up to consider implementation of all of Farmer’s recommendations.
CITB chief executive Tim Balcon said: “Importantly, the report recognises the significant skills challenges facing the construction and engineering industries and the vital role that the ITBs play in helping address these. Further, it asserts that the best way of doing so is to retain the ITB model and industry-specific levies.
“Grant funding for apprenticeships and new entrants is vital, with more than two-thirds of apprenticeship starts in the construction industry being employed by companies of fewer than 50 employees.”
He added that CITB is already addressing many of the areas identified in the report and is working to improve its engagement with employers and employees.
He added: “We already work in close collaboration with ECITB on some key areas and we will expand this into a more formal collaboration where it offers value to the sector.
Brian Berry, chief executive of trade body the Federation of Master Builders, welcomed the report: “For too long the construction industry has been plagued by an ongoing skills crisis which is holding back economic growth. The urgent need to build new infrastructure projects and deliver much needed housing won’t happen unless there is radical review of the training landscape – the Mark Farmer report shows the way forward,” he said.
“If the Government is to deliver its ambitious infrastructure and housing targets, then it makes sense for them to implement the Mark Farmer report in full.”
The full report can be downloaded here:
Going ‘Further and Faster’ to Get Britain Building
The Government has announced its priorities for the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which will be introduced in the spring to speed up 150 major infrastructure projects and support the delivery of 1.5 million new homes over this Parliament. As part of the Government’s Plan for Change, the Chancellor has committed to the ‘smooth, speedy and rapid delivery’ of the Bill, which is key to reforming the planning system and kickstarting economic growth.
- The default answer to the development of acceptable types of schemes in key areas ‐ for example near commuter transport hubs ‐ will be ‘yes’. The current system of environmental impact assessments will also be replaced with Environmental Outcome Reports to reduce costs and delays.
- With over half of all decisions on major infrastructure taken to court, there will be just one attempt at judicial review in most cases, rather than three, and where a judge in an oral hearing at the High Court deems the case ‘Totally Without Merit’, it will not be possible to ask the Court of Appeal to reconsider the verdict.
- A Nature Restoration Fund will be established, allowing developers to pool contributions into a single fund to meet their environmental obligations, rather than on a project‐by‐project basis.
The Government has also published a working paper setting out the principles and objectives for its 10‐year infrastructure strategy, which for the first time aims to bring together a long‐term plan for the country’s economic, social and housing infrastructure. It includes a commitment to produce an infrastructure pipeline in order to give industry a ‘clear sense’ of the Government’s priorities and support investment. Decisions have already been made on a number of significant projects, including airports, data centres, energy farms and housing developments, and the Chancellor has now confirmed the Government’s support for a third runway at Heathrow and the regeneration of the Old Trafford area in Manchester.
Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol OBE joined an ICE roundtable with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury earlier this week to discuss what should be included in the infrastructure strategy, which will be published alongside the Spending Review in June, and members can provide feedback via email.
Changes to CSCS Cards
- Labourer card ‐ The initial validity will be reduced from five to two years and only operatives who continue in a labouring role will be able to renew their card for five years by providing evidence they are employed as a labourer. The accompanying CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test will also have its validity extended to three years so any operatives who do continue in a labouring role can use it to renew their card.
- Trainee card ‐ In order to provide a simplified route into the industry for new entrants with prior training, individuals who have attained an approved Level 2 (or above) occupation related non‐competence qualification will be eligible for a two‐year Trainee card. More information on the routes to a Trainee card can be found in this flowchart.
All CSCS cards obtained via Industry Accreditation have now expired and the CITB funding available to support individuals who require a qualification to move onto the appropriate card has been extended until 31 March 2026.
Competition Law in Construction
New Hospital Programme Update
The Government has announced a ‘credible plan and timeline’ to deliver all the projects within the New Hospital Programme (NHP) following a review last year. The ‘biggest hospital building programme in a generation’ will now be delivered in three five‐year waves by 2039, in order to ensure there is a ‘balanced portfolio of hospital schemes at different development stages’. The new implementation plan will be backed with investment averaging around £3 billion a year from 2030.
NHP is a member of Build UK and this announcement represents a committed pipeline of work, which should give industry the certainty it needs to prepare. NHP will be launching a series of events called ‘NHP Bitesize’ to help businesses get involved in the programme, and members can sign up to receive regular updates from the NHP.
Littlewoods Open Doors 2025
Littlewood’s are thrilled to announce that for the second year in a row, they will be hosting a Build UK Open Doors “An Introduction to the Fencing Industry” Workshop on Wednesday 19th March 2025 at their Head Office in Battle!
If you’ve ever considered a career in the fencing industry or are curious about the diverse opportunities available, this free, one-day workshop is the perfect starting point. Whether you’re a school leaver, career changer or simply looking to expand your skill set, the event is open to all ages and backgrounds.
What to expect
Their Build UK Open Doors Workshop is designed to provide an in-depth look into the fencing industry, covering everything from project planning to hands-on installation. Here’s a glimpse of what the day will look like:
- Kickstarting your career
Your journey begins with a warm welcome from our HR team, who will guide you through CV tips and mock interviews to help you stand out in your job search.
2. Sales & commercial success
Our team of Estimators and Quantity Surveyors will introduce you to the commercial side of fencing, explaining the key elements of sales, costing and project budgeting.
- Hands-on design & innovation
Discover the power of 3D CAD modelling with our in-house Mechanical and Structural Design team. Engage in interactive activities, test your skills and even win prizes!
- Site safety & hazard awareness
Before stepping into the field, our HSQE team will provide essential training, including a hazard perception quiz. You’ll also receive your own PPE to prepare for hands-on activities.
- Practical fencing demonstration
The highlight of the day! Work alongside our on-site fencing team to gain real-world experience. You’ll:
- Mark out your working zone
- Scan for buried services using Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT)
- Dig by hand or operate small plant machinery
- Construct a fence from start to finish
By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the industry and the confidence to explore a rewarding career in fencing.
Why attend?
- Gain hands-on experience with industry professionals
- Access career advice, CV support, and mock interviews
- Explore different roles within the fencing sector
- Network with experts and like-minded individuals
- Have fun while learning new skills!
Supporting the Armed Forces community
Littlewoods are proud members of the Armed Forces Covenant, supporting veterans and active service members transitioning into civilian careers. This workshop is an excellent opportunity for those looking to start their next chapter in a dynamic and growing industry.
For more information or to register, contact Dominique Stevenson, Business Development Coordinator at: dominique.stevenson@littlewoodgroup.co.uk
AFI Membership Renewals
2025 AFI membership packs are now being dispatched – what’s inside the box this year?
Don’t forget our updated renewal requirements:
To ensure all members continue to meet the high standards outlined in our Code of Practice and Terms & Conditions, we are introducing new requirements for membership renewal. From 2025, all renewing members will need to provide:
- A copy of your up-to-date insurance documents (employer, public liability, and all-risk).
- Your latest financial accounts.
- A positive reference.
These updates will help maintain the credibility and reputation of AFI members while positioning you for future opportunities.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in implementing these changes, which are designed to strengthen the AFI and the value we provide to our members.
If you have any questions about the renewal process, or member benefits, please don’t hesitate to contact Pete or myself at victoria@theafi.co.uk or 0203 772 0617
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