Construction workers in the city are developing new skills after completing training courses funded with section 106 developer contributions.
Brighton & Hove City Council is one of the few local authorities to offer the training through a Local Employment Scheme.
The scheme supports construction workers, including self-employed trades, by funding training and qualifications which will develop the skills, knowledge and expertise needed to work in the industry today and in the future.
Since 2018, the scheme has funded 247 training courses, utilising Section 106 contributions from 47 development sites in the city.
Courses include site management, crane operations, traffic marshalling, and mental health first aid qualifications.
The scheme has also supported 22 apprentices on local sites.
Councillor Lucy Helliwell, joint chair of the Children, Families and School’s Committee, said: “It’s wonderful to see section 106 money being used in such an innovative way.
"Not only are construction workers gaining valuable training, qualifications and improved job prospects, employers are benefitting from a local highly skilled local workforce.”
Local Employment Scheme
The Local Employment Scheme, in partnership with the Brighton MET and Brighton Aldridge Community Academy Colleges, is keen to hear from tradespeople interested in becoming a full or part-time tutor in a further education college, teaching young people aged 16 to 19, or adults.
Teaching is a rewarding career that can be combined with a current role.
The Local Employment Scheme for Construction supports residents in post code areas BN1-3 and 41.
Businesses registered within these post codes can email bhles@brighton-hove.gov.uk for more information.
Section 106 agreements
Section 106 agreements are made to ensure that development in Brighton & Hove provides local improvements which will benefit both residents and the existing community.
The agreements, made between developers and the council’s planning service, are an undertaking to provide works, or financial contributions, to improve the facilities or the infrastructure in the area where the building is taking place.
The level of contributions is set to reflect the type and size of the new development and its impact on the local environment.
Decisions on how to spend Section 106 funding are made by council committees, and projects can range from transport improvements and travel initiatives to community and recreation facilities, education, health and affordable housing.