The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has today launched its Construction Workforce Outlook 2025–29, a refreshed and forward-looking report that sets out the workforce needs of the UK construction sector over the next five years.

Previously named the Construction Skills Network report, the Workforce Outlook reflects a broader understanding of the sector’s needs. The outlook shows that there are opportunities ahead. Successfully achieving them requires long term commitment from employers, government, training providers and CITB. For construction to have the workforce it needs in the future, investment in training that supports people into jobs is crucial. This is at the heart of CITB’s Strategic and Business Plans.

Marcus Bennett, CITB Head of Analysis and Forecasting said: “We have developed a new interactive tool this year. It allows users to compare output, growth, the workforce and the extra workers needed by nation and region. The tool allows users to focus on the information that is most appropriate for them. The full regional and national reports are still available for more detailed information.

“The forecasts and analysis provide market intelligence and insights that allows CITB, governments and businesses to understand the current climate, and plan for the future.”

He went onto explain some key facts highlighted from the UK report:

  • In 2024, construction output reached £215.7 billion
  • The largest sectors were housing repair & maintenance (22%) and and non-housing repair & maintenance (22%).
  • Average annual output growth for 2025 to 2029 is 2.1%
  • If projected growth is met, by 2029 the number of people working in construction would be 2.75 million
  • Extra workers needed per year is 47,860

CITB has been producing workforce outlooks since 2006/2007 to provide evidence and insights into the number of workers needed to meet forecasted demand. It is still the only report of this type for the construction industry and is compiled using a range of both backward and forward looking data. Having a view on changes in the construction workforce and the need for extra workers is a core part of helping CITB better understand future training needs.

Construction Workforce Outlook 2025-29 report can be viewed and downloaded, the page also features a new web-based interactive tool.