Government consults on training board merger
23rd March 2026
UK: The government has opened a consultation on its plans to merge construction and engineering boards to simplify the skills system and strengthen industry leadership.
The plans will create a single industry training board by uniting the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
This, it says, will simplify the skills system, strengthen industry leadership and give employers a clearer, stronger voice in shaping the workforce they need.
The Department for Work and Pensions insists that bringing the two boards together will mean more training, better use of funding and clearer routes into skilled work. Employers will find it easier to get the workers they need, and more people will have the opportunity to build a career in construction and engineering.
The 12-week consultation, launched today, seeks views from employers, training providers and stakeholders across England, Scotland and Wales.
“We are committed to giving the next generation the high-quality, employer-led training that leads to real jobs and real careers,” explained work and pensions secretary Pat McFadden
“That’s why we are working hand in hand with the sector, ensuring employers get the skilled workforce they need to drive productivity, deliver infrastructure and power our clean energy future.”
Further details and how to respond are available here.
