Jeremy Richards, head of office at JLL’s Bristol office, said: “The Chancellor’s continued focus on investment in improving the M4 and the electrification of the Great Western Mainline is welcome; it is vital that due emphasis is placed on important new infrastructure projects in the region.
“The announcement regarding the delivery of three million new apprenticeships is one of the most important points put forward in this budget when addressing further stability and economic growth for the UK. The whole country is suffering from a chronic shortage of skilled construction workers. This is driving up construction costs and affecting the viability of much-needed housing and commercial developments.
“Providing a plentiful supply of skilled construction workers would help ease the pressure on costs while improving productivity in the industry and providing a further boost to employment.”
Commenting on the announcement that Sunday trading laws will be relaxed, Jeremy added: “This is a welcome announcement from the Chancellor. With people able to shop online 24/7, the physical retail world needs to be able to compete. Time is the most vital commodity that people have and more flexibility is required to enable people to fit shopping into their busy lives. At a time of rising consumer confidence more shopping time can only be good news for retailers and consumers alike. The Chancellor now needs to tackle the stranglehold that an outdated business rates system is having on retailers.”
