UK Housing Minister Stresses Need to Train Domestic Construction Workers

Matthew Pennycook emphasizes reducing reliance on foreign labor to meet ambitious 1.5 million homes target by 2030.

Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook stated that the UK cannot depend entirely on foreign workers to address the construction labor shortage while building 1.5 million homes by 2030.
The Construction Industry Training Board estimates an additional 250,000 workers are needed by 2028 to meet housing demand, with current recruitment efforts falling short.
The National Federation of Builders has called for temporary visas to address the immediate labor gap, citing the time required to train domestic apprentices and the aging workforce.
Pennycook highlighted a £140 million investment in 32 homebuilding skills hubs to upskill British workers and reduce reliance on immigration.
Industry experts warn that without changes to immigration policies or significant upskilling efforts, the government’s housing target may be unachievable.