Devonport residents who’ve worked on the construction sites in the regeneration area will be recognised at an event tomorrow.

‘Constructing the Future for Devonport’ will celebrate the achievements of the Devonport Labour in Construction Project, a joint initiative by two housing associations, two construction companies and the Devonport Regeneration Community Partnership.

The project started in July 2006, with the aim of securing access to construction training and employment for local people, and has since helped 150 local people. Over 35 Devonport residents have found work in construction, and another five have started apprenticeships in construction trades.

Construction Links Coordinator Margaret Prior and Devonport resident, said: “We all know the image people have of Devonport, but that’s changing fast. Smart new homes and other buildings are going up, and through this project, they’re being built by people who live here.”

The project is one of several local labour projects launched around the country, to try and challenge the bussing in of construction workers, often from distant towns.

“Training and employing local people makes sense on so many levels,” Margaret adds, “It helps to address the skills shortage in the industry, and it doesn’t cost any more than other approaches to construction. It also helps with the regeneration of the area, by providing work for local people and custom for local businesses. On top of that, it’s better for the environment.”

Funding for the Devonport Labour in Construction Project comes from Sovereign Housing Association, Leadbitter Construction, Devon and Cornwall Housing Association and Devonport Regeneration Community Partnership.

‘Constructing the Future for Devonport’ will take place at the Royal Fleet Club in Morice Square from 4pm on Wednesday 5 December.

Published 11 December 2007
[Back to news] [Back to top]