UK Faces Labor Shortages For 1.5-M Home Construction Goal

The UK lacks enough construction workers to meet the government’s ambitious pledge to build 1.5 million homes by 2029, industry leaders have warned, BBC News reported.

The construction industry currently averages 220,000 homes built annually—well below the 300,000 required to meet the government’s goal.

The Home Builders Federation and major firms like Barratt Redrow cited skill shortages, an aging workforce, and the effects of Brexit as key challenges.

The construction industry currently averages 220,000 homes built annually—well below the 300,000 required to meet the government’s goal. Tens of thousands of additional workers are needed in trades such as bricklaying, carpentry, and groundwork.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed the pledge, unveiling planning reforms to address obstacles to development.

While acknowledging a “dire shortage” of construction workers, the government stated it is taking steps to address the issue. The current workforce stands at approximately 2.67 million, according to the Construction Industry Training Board.