Construction forum is building for the future
A new construction forum has been set up in West Lothian to help improve job opportunities and increase partnership working within the local industry.
The forum has been established by West Lothian Council alongside local construction partners and West Lothian College.
It will be key in shaping the future opportunities the industry has to offer in both the professional and trade disciplines.
It will also help to develop a closer collaboration between West Lothian-based construction-adjacent organisations.
The forum aims to improve collaboration across the sector, encourage school leavers to join the industry, improve training and skills, increase supply chain opportunities, and support sustainability and environmental goals
Managing director of Ashwood Scotland, Archie Meikle, recently agreed to initiate and chair the West Lothian Construction Forum.
The forum will focus on four main areas: education, employability and training, construction and local economy, and sustainability and environmental.
Mr Meikle said: “Having worked in construction for nearly 45 years and being deeply passionate about both the industry and the local West Lothian economy, I therefore feel it an honour and privilege to have been asked to take on this role.”
Executive councillor for development
and transport, Cathy Muldoon, said: “The construction sector is incredibly important to the West Lothian economy and this forum will aim to bring the industry closer together in an effort to
improve opportunities for growth and create jobs.
“I think it is really important that we ensure that young people have a clear route into the construction industry and that is one of the key aims of the forum.
“I’m delighted that we have Archie at the helm and he will bring a huge amount of experience and expertise.”