Tarmac host CBI round table on future of infrastructure

Senior business leaders gather at Tarmac HQ to discuss market challenges and opportunities

SENIOR business leaders from companies including Atkins, Interserve, Carillion and housing associations gathered at Tarmac’s Portland House headquarters recently for round-table talks with the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) West Midlands and Oxfordshire.

Martin Riley, Tarmac’s senior vice-president, introduced the event, which focused on discussing the Government’s view of the sector and the industry’s ability to deliver infrastructure and housing priorities; hearing members’ views on the challenges that they and the construction industry are facing; and discussing how the CBI can support members in addressing these issues.

Mr Riley said: ‘The discussion gave us a great opportunity to explain that while there is a lot of talk about the market getting busier, and questions about whether the industry is ready, Tarmac have invested for the future and are ready to meet growing demand.

‘It was interesting to discuss the role of the whole supply chain in improving perceptions of construction, and how more collaborative working can unlock efficiencies and innovation for the benefit of our customers, UK industry and the people who work in our sector.’

Richard Butler, CBI director of West Midlands and Oxfordshire, added: ‘The UK’s housing, construction and infrastructure market is critical to the country’s ongoing recovery. This event was, therefore, a key opportunity for significant players in the market to discuss market challenges and opportunities.

‘This is part and parcel of an overall CBI advocacy programme to influence government support to strengthen this key industry. Construction is a major employer, makes a significant contribution to the economy and has a strong multiplier effect, creating many jobs indirectly for each one directly employed in construction.’