Columnist

Creating a thriving North East construction sector

As we move into 2026, our focus at Construction Alliance North East will be firmly on our three pillars of fair payment, procurement and skills. 

Every initiative we undertake is guided by one simple goal – to lobby on behalf of local contractors, so they can thrive in an increasingly challenging market.

2025 was a strong year for skills development in the North East.

We made significant progress in promoting training, apprenticeships and career pathways into the construction industry. 

With demand for skilled trades remaining high, ensuring a steady pipeline of trained professionals is vital for both individual businesses and the wider regional economy. 

The Government has moved forward with a new apprenticeship regime, which will roll out in 2026. 

Skills development is not just about filling gaps but providing the workforce with the skills they need to deliver high-quality projects and to remain competitive.

Fair payment continues to be a critical issue for our sector. 

The Government’s fair payment scheme is in place and we are encouraging more companies to sign up at both local and national levels. 

This isn’t simply a compliance exercise; it’s about embedding a culture of prompt and fair payment across the industry. 

When contractors are paid on time and fairly, they can operate with confidence, invest in their teams and plan for sustainable growth – outcomes that benefit businesses and the wider construction sector.

Procurement remains a challenge and an opportunity. 

Government initiatives will continue to feed down new properties and infrastructure projects, and we remain hopeful private clients will free up additional funds to support local contractors. 

Ensuring local contractors have visibility of pipelines, clear access to opportunities and the chance to compete on quality, rather than simply price, is central to our work.

Whether it’s advocating for fair payment, simplifying procurement or supporting skills development, our goal is to give local contractors the tools, knowledge, connections and opportunities they need to succeed. 

2026 promises to be another busy year, and with a strong focus on our three pillars, we are committed to creating a more sustainable, skilled and thriving construction sector across the North East.

Tim Barrett is chair of Construction Alliance North East

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