The value of construction work going through the Scotland-wide “hub” programme led by the Scottish Futures Trust (SFT) has increased to more than £1 billion.
Figures published by the SFT show the value of schools, health centres and town-centre facilities being built for public sector organisations has reached £1.11 billion.
The SFT is an independent company established by the Scottish Government with a responsibility for delivering value for money across public sector infrastructure investment.
The latest figures show:
- 78% of hub contracts have been awarded to small businesses
- The construction is supporting more than 14,000 jobs
- 116 new graduate places and more than 580 apprenticeship and trainee roles have also been created
- Projects valued at £550 million are in development
- Projects valued at £510 million are already completed, operational and serving local communities
David MacDonald, hub Programme Director at SFT, said: “The success of the hub programme is clear to see as the value of projects under construction continues to grow.
“The hub programme is an innovative approach to develop and deliver best-value community facilities which provides public bodies with a quick and efficient way of getting their projects into construction and services delivered to their communities.
“The benefit of using hub as the preferred delivery partner is reflected in the huge increase in the value of projects under construction.
“We see this momentum continuing as there’s £550 million of community projects still in development which are due to start on site in the next 12 to 24 months though our ever-growing pipeline of work.
“With 78% of hub construction contracts being awarded to SMEs, many thousands of local jobs are being protected and sustained.”
Mike Burrows, director of Lenzie-based Fleming Buildings Ltd said: “Being an SME, the opportunities available through hub has given long-term security to our existing workforce and has enabled us invest in apprenticeships and provide new employment opportunities.
“At the same time it has given us a platform to deliver community benefits through collaborating with the local schools & colleges.”