Construction identified as priority sector in new Tees Valley skills strategy
The employer-led project has identified construction as one of six requiring targeted workforce development to support the region’s pipeline of major infrastructure, industrial, and regeneration projects.
Published by the North East Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Tees Valley Combined Authority, the Tees Valley Local Skills Improvement Plan 2026-2029 sets out recommendations aimed at better aligning post-16 education and training with employer demand.
The plan, funded by Skills England, highlights construction alongside advanced manufacturing, clean energy, chemical and process industries, bio and life sciences, and digital and creative industries as sectors expected to drive the region’s economic growth over the coming decade.
The strategy comes as investment in industrial decarbonisation, clean energy, advanced manufacturing and innovation continues across Tees Valley, with forecasts suggesting around 33,000 additional jobs could be created by 2035.
Among the priorities identified by employers are improving work readiness, expanding digital and AI skills, addressing workforce shortages, increasing higher-level technical skills and making it easier for businesses to engage with apprenticeships, placements, and workforce development programmes.
The report was developed by the North East Chamber of Commerce in its role as the designated Employer Representative Body for Tees Valley, following consultation with employers, education providers, universities, local authorities and industry organisations.
The Local Skills Improvement Plan is intended to support the delivery of wider regional economic and industrial strategies by ensuring the skills system can respond to future demand created by investment across key growth sectors, including construction and the built environment.
Rachel Anderson, assistant director of policy at the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “This Local Skills Improvement Plan is shaped by the voice of Tees Valley employers. Businesses have been clear about both the opportunities ahead and the challenges they face in recruiting the skilled workforce they need to grow and thrive.
“With major investment transforming the Tees Valley economy, we have a real opportunity to create high-quality jobs and ensure local people can access the careers emerging across key growth sectors. Achieving that depends on a skills system that is employer-led, responsive and aligned with the needs of the regional economy – measures we outline in our Unlocking the North East Economy policy plan.
“The LSIP sets out a practical framework for collaboration between employers, education providers, universities, local authorities, and partners. Continued partnership and employer leadership will be essential to deliver the actions identified, strengthen our talent pipeline and ensure Tees Valley has the workforce needed to drive long-term, sustainable economic growth.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Our region is leading the way in delivering the industries that will power the UK’s future – from clean energy and advanced manufacturing to digital innovation and life sciences. But our success depends on making sure local people have the skills needed to access the high-quality jobs being created right here on their doorstep.
“This plan ensures our education and training system keeps pace with the opportunities emerging across our region. By bringing businesses, educators and training providers together, we’re building a workforce that meets the needs of industry today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow.
“As we continue to attract major investment and create thousands of new jobs, this plan will help ensure Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool residents are first in line to benefit, giving employers the talent they need to grow and ensuring our region remains at the forefront of economic growth and innovation.”
