Commenting on the UK Government’s decison to approve Hinkley Mark Bodger, Strategic Partnership Director for CITB Cymru Wales, said:

“The UK Government’s decision to give the go-ahead to the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset could have knock-on benefits for Welsh construction. But it also highlights the need to start planning now to make sure we have the skills for all the projects in the pipeline.

“Hinkley could bring other nuclear projects closer, including the £14bn Wylfa Newydd power station on Anglesey. This would be one of the main drivers of Welsh construction growth over the next decade.

“However, it could also drain construction skills from Wales at a time when we need to build such major projects as the Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon, the South Wales Metro and the Celtic Manor Convention Centre.

“With so much on the horizon, it’s imperative that the new National Infrastructure Commission for Wales maximises the sector’s potential through careful planning and finance of major Welsh projects.

“This certainty will help construction employers identify their upcoming skills needs, and CITB will work closely with industry to upskill the existing workforce and attract new people to construction.”