Non-essential construction should stop immediately, says Scottish Government

ALL non-essential construction work should stop immediately, the Scottish Government has said.

New guidance for the construction industry makes clear that work on projects should cease unless it is supporting the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Projects deemed essential can continue operating if they can comply with guidance on social distancing, safety and welfare. Any site unable to meet these requirements should close.

Essential projects include creating or re-purposing facilities to be used directly in coronavirus related activities, projects to create facilities to accommodate key workers and the repair and maintenance of critical infrastructure.

Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "We recognise this is an extremely difficult time for businesses of all kinds, but the Scottish Government’s priority is saving lives.

"To this end, all construction sites should close unless they are essential to the health and welfare of the country during this crisis. I want to make clear our thanks to the construction workers who are continuing to work on these essential projects.

"This guidance offers clear and comprehensive advice on how the industry should respond in these unprecedented and difficult times. I am grateful to the STUC, Unite the Union and Construction Scotland for their input.

"In this public health emergency, it is vital all businesses act responsibly and align fully with the social distancing measures introduced to protect the nation’s heath, well-being and economic future."

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