SOME 17,850 new construction jobs are expected to be created in Wales over the next five years, according to new research.

Research carried out by CITB Wales - the national training organisation for construction - was published at the end of January.

The five-year Construction Skills Network (CSN) forecast shows that the Welsh construction industry is set to grow 3.4% annually between now and 2018,fuelled by the anticipated start of build work at the Wylfa nuclear power station at Anglesey.

Infrastructure in Wales is set to be the chief driver of growth in Wales, second only to the South West, with average annual output growth expected to be 11%. Overall annual output growth of 3.4% will be significantly higher than the 2.2% average annual growth across the rest of the UK.

The private housing sector is set to be the second largest driver of growth in Wales.

Further commitment from the Welsh government to sustain investment in major infrastructure projects and the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme for first-time house buyers are also anticipated to boost growth.

CITB Wales Director Wyn Prichard said: “The CSN report shows that things are starting to look more positive for Wales, following a challenging few years.

“However, employment levels in 2018 are still forecast to be below pre-recession levels, so we need to ensure that measures are put in place now to secure sustained growth in the long-term.”

He added: “Our close working with the Welsh Government, employers and training providers to ensure initiatives are developed to meet the skills needs of the existing Welsh construction industry is further helping to develop the pipeline of skills.”

“Above all, it is clarity and certainty of future projects that give employers the confidence to train and plan and our recently launched Construction4Growth campaign in Wales demonstrates the commitment of CITB Wales in delivering long-term growth to our industry.”

Deputy Minister for skills and technology Ken Skates AM said: “Having the right intelligence on the demand for skills is critical to informing how we work with businesses to support their training needs.”

He added: “Significant progress is being made within the sector, and we will continue to work in partnership with CITB and construction businesses in Wales to provide them with the support they need so they are in the best position possible for future economic growth.”