Building for the future: the potential importance of the construction industry in Welsh economic development policy

Abstract

Government aid offered to Wales, and largely spent on attracting foreign direct investment, has yet to provide tangible benefits in terms of relative economic prosperity and sustained job creation. The present policy focus is therefore now concerned with creating innovative solutions led by local individuals, firms and communities. New economic strategic aims and objectives have failed to attach significance to the potential importance of the construction sector in assisting this economic regeneration of regions and, in particular, the benefits that can be derived from the development of the small construction enterprise (SCE). It is argued that for the SCE to survive and grow, it is necessary both to acknowledge the role of small firms and to develop beneficial training packages. Moreover, it is imperative that such new initiatives engender an inclusive culture that meet the needs of all contracting parties and aspires to the notion of increased profitability for all.