CTLR Project Exceeds Skills Development Targets
The Cross Tay Link Road project has exceeded targets set for work experience, skills development, and engagement with educational institutions, four months ahead of schedule.
As part of the wider community benefits programme within the CTLR project, Perth and Kinross Council outlined key objectives in employability and skills development. These targets were written in line with current legislation, national guidance, and the Council’s own Procurement Strategy.
Councillor Grant Laing, Perth & Kinross Council leader, explains, “The ultimate aim of the project’s community benefits requirements is to secure real economic and social benefit for our customers and communities. By tackling skills shortages and building new talent, we can ensure long term economic prosperity at local, regional, and national level.
“Evidence has shown that when projects such as CTLR offer work experience, adopt inclusive approaches to engaging with schools and colleges, and break down barriers for young people from disadvantaged groups, everyone benefits.”
The project team was tasked to deliver 180 hours of work experience for under 16s, 500 hours of work experience for over 18s, and 5,000 hours of hands-on educational engagement.
On November 30 2024, four months ahead of the project end, the team had delivered 184 hours of work experience for under 16s, 1,142 hours of work experience for over 18s, and 6,731 hours of hands-on educational engagement.
Jillian Ferguson, Roads Infrastructure Manager for PKC, commented, “Expanding and enhancing skills and engaging proactively with educational institutions was a key component of the CTLR procurement process.
“As the main contractor, BAM UK & Ireland demonstrated a commitment to deliver on these points and showed clear understanding as to the importance of providing opportunities for young people in communities across Perth & Kinross. We are delighted to see these targets met and exceeded.”
Recognising the ongoing skills shortage in STEM-based industries, the project team programmed a number of opportunities both on-site, and in partnership with the Tayside division of Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), and the Institute of Chartered Engineers (ICE) via their Build A Bridge Challenge.
Derek Walsh, Contracts Manager for BAM UK & Ireland, commented, “When showcasing careers in the construction industry, it’s essential for young people to get to know the reality behind the hard hats and diggers.
“We have visited schools with the Build a Bridge Challenge, attended careers fairs throughout the region, and offered primary, secondary, college and and university level students site visits and hands-on work experience opportunities in various roles.
“I know I speak for everyone involved when I say, it has been hugely encouraging to witness the enthusiasm and interest from the young people we have worked with, and we’d like to wish those pursuing a career in engineering, every success."
Steven McLaughlin, PT Guidance, Kinross High School, commented, "We had amazing feedback from the two sixth year students who participated in a week’s work experience with the Cross Tay Link Road project in November. Both commented on how beneficial it has been for their career choices, and how much they enjoyed the experience.”