UKCG Publishes 'Construction's Impact On The Big Society'

The UK Contractors Group (UKCG) has published a report "Construction's impact on the big society" highlighting the huge impact construction makes to the fabric of society.

This is demonstrated through a series of case studies showing how construction impacts on local communities and contributes to the "big society".

It shows, for example, that the industry is:

• Supporting nearly a quarter of SMEs in the economy
• Helping to deliver better education
• Helping to eliminate social exclusion
• Reducing re-offending
• Restoring sustainable and vibrant communities
• Reducing waste to landfill
• Providing cleaner and safer hospitals

Speaking about the report, James Wates, Chairman of UKCG, said: "UKCG and the CBI have spent the past year highlighting the enormous contribution construction makes to the UK economy but that is not the whole story. Our impact on society goes much wider than a purely economic one.


"This is a story the industry needs to get across loud and clear. It is important that decision makers recognise our role at a time when the big society is taking on increasing political significance. Moreover it shows that for every pound spent on construction there is more than an economic return of £2.84."

(CD)/KMcA)