Wales has taken a major step forward in ensuring the future safety of its homes and buildings by funding four trainee inspectors.
The £350,630 grant matches funds provided by Local Authority Building Control (LABC), meaning that the country will benefit from eight new inspectors once they are fully qualified.
Wales is introducing a new regulatory regime from April next year under which building inspectors and approvers will have to register to continue working in the building control profession.
Julie James, Minister for Climate Change, said: “Working with LABC, we have agreed to put eight trainees through the process in order to support succession planning in Wales, and we start to create a workforce fit for the future.”
Ms James acknowledged that the regulation changes had led to workforce challenges and identified a need for further support to the building control industry generally. Part of that support would be in the form of the eight training places for new recruits, she added.
“These trainees will learn about building control on the job whilst completing their professional qualifications,” said Ms James.
LABC represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales and has a network of around 3,800 professional surveyors who provide expert advice. When it decided to permanently fund a training academy, it proved an instant success with over 1,000 applying for just 15 places.
LABC’s Chief Executive, Lorna Stimpson, welcomed the latest initiative from the Welsh Government: “This funding will ensure that Wales will benefit from building inspectors who have gone through rigorous training through an accredited course. When the eight trainees have completed their courses, which will include work placements with various authorities, they will be able to demonstrate their competence and play a crucial role in ensuring that buildings are safe.”
To find out more about LABC’s training and qualifications visit: www.labc.co.uk/professionals/training
