A partnership has been forged between West Lothian Council, private industry and West Lothian College to boost local jobs and training schemes within the local building industry.
It will also help the construction industry build resilience and develop commercial and economic contacts within the county - increasing supply chain opportunities and supporting sustainability and environmental goals.
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A local builder Archie Meikle, the managing director of Ashwood Scotland has agreed to initiate and chair the new West Lothian Construction Forum.
The plan is to improve collaboration across the construction sector, encourage school leavers to join the industry and improve training and skills in the local workforce.
Ashwood Scotland Limited was founded in 1999 by Mr Meikle, initially working from a 200sq ft office in Livingston. Having secured two contracts within four weeks of formation the firm has traded uninterrupted ever since.
It now fulfils new build, refurbishment, restoration and maintenance contracts from £500 to £5 million value.
The Construction 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 feel it an honour and privilege to have been asked to take on this role.”
The council’s 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.”
