‘Sludge in the system’: myriad problems stymie Labour’s 1.5m new homes pledge
Summary
The UK government has promised to build 1.5 million new homes, but so far, progress is slow. Although many young people want to work in construction, there are not enough apprenticeships and hands-on opportunities to get them into the job market.Key Facts
- The government aims to build 1.5 million new homes to address the housing crisis.
- In the first 18 months of the current parliament, just over 300,000 homes were built, which is below the needed pace.
- There are about 140,000 construction job vacancies in 2025, with many workers expected to retire by 2035.
- More than 62,500 adults enrolled in construction courses in England last year, making it the fastest-growing adult education field.
- Informal construction training without official qualifications has also doubled in recent years.
- Despite high demand from students, only 24,500 people started construction apprenticeships last year—still not enough to meet industry needs.
- Colleges report many young people want to work in construction but face barriers due to a lack of apprenticeship opportunities.
- The industry struggles more with providing job opportunities than with finding skilled young people.
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