The biggest customer of Welsh construction is the public sector. Latest figures from the Construction Procurement Task Group reveal almost £3bn of work is in the pipeline over the next four years. That is a healthy number – albeit a great proportion is invested in education and there is some variances across the four regions of Wales. It is good news. It also reinforces the arguments we have been putting forward that construction is looking forward to a more positive future.

Glenigan has reported that contracts amongst the top ten contractors in Wales have increased for the second consecutive period for the 12 months to September; growing by 6% and standing at around £550m worth of work. Meanwhile Barbour ABI states that 8% of all work won across the UK has been awarded in Wales (London represents around 25%) – with a big proportion of that being public sector investment in Welsh education schemes.

But all of this work has to be built right, planned properly and procured in a manner that allows for sustainability and waste targets to be met and that gives everyone in the supply chain the chance to add value.

Things might be looking good for the industry, but that is even more reason to keep up the pressure to adhere to collaborative working principles. That is why at CEW we are pushing hard for a review of how the industry operates – from client to materials supply and each stakeholder in between. In particular we are looking at public sector construction with a review of No Turning Back. We want to find out how much you think has changed since its recommendations and objectives were published in 2010. Please look out for survey questions sent to you on email next week via Survey Monkey. Please answer as wholly as possible. We want honest feedback. With your help we can shape our future for the next four years.