CLC welcomes new co-chair

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has appointed Sarah Jones MP as its new co-chair, alongside Mark Reynolds.

Sarah Jones, who serves as Minister of State for both the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), will now also be part of the CLC Board.

Jones is set to work closely with Reynolds and deputy co-chair Richard Robinson to support the government's plans to boost economic growth and revive the UK's construction industry.

"The construction sector is vital to our economy, supporting thousands of jobs across the UK," Jones said.

"I look forward to working closely with the Construction Leadership Council to champion the sector as it builds the infrastructure we need, and ensure its net zero ambitions deliver for both the workforce and our economy."

Mark Reynolds, co-chair of the CLC and CEO of Mace Group, said: "This Government has been very clear about its ambitious plans for infrastructure delivery and growth.

"The construction industry has a crucial role in realising those ambitions. The CLC, working in partnership with Government, provides crucial leadership to the sector. We've already had some productive conversations with the Minister, and I look forward to working closely with her in the coming years."

Richard Robinson, CLC deputy co-chair and president of AtkinsRéalis UK & Ireland, said: "From simplifying the consenting process for major infrastructure projects to reforming the planning system, this government recognises that we must get Britain building with more pace and purpose.

"Through much of the work undertaken by the CLC over the past couple of years, we are ready to support the Minister in driving change which will benefit the UK construction sector and wider economy."

The CLC is a joint initiative between the government and the construction industry, aiming to provide leadership and address key issues facing the sector. The council operates through twelve workstreams focusing on areas such as skills and inclusion, building safety, net zero, and business models.