Call for Scotland to get its own construction adviser

Aaron Morby 11 years ago
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A far-reaching review into procurement in Scotland has called for a new post of chief construction adviser to liaise between Government and the industry.

The single voice for the industry could raise concerns with ministers and should be appointed by the start of the 2014-15 financial year, according to a newly-published report.

Ministers ordered the review last October to identify where improvements in efficiency, delivery and sustainability of construction procurement projects could be made.

It was carried out by former forensic partner with professional services firm KMPG Robin Crawford and Ken Lewandowski, a former chairman for Clydesdale Bank Financial Solutions, in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

It also backed the trial of project bank accounts north of the border. The review has also called for contractual terms between client and main contractor to consistently outline fair payment terms for supply chain participants.

The review says that clients should ensure that appropriate resources are allocated to contract management and enforcement of terms and conditions of contract.

The report also calls for measures to encourage smaller firms to bid for work including the official publication of subcontractor opportunities on works contracts.

Vaughan Hart, managing director of the Scottish Building Federation, said: “I’m pleased to see the publication of this report and the recognition it gives to the crucial importance of the construction industry to Scotland’s economy.

“I share the conclusion that improving the efficiency of construction procurement is a joint responsibility of industry and government and welcome the emphasis placed on promoting existing best practice.”

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