The new Construction Industry Leadership Group has been designated with a chairman in the form of Tim Clarke, Divisional Managing Director of Balfour Beatty Construction Scottish and Southern.

The new Industry Leadership Group is intended to be a driving force for construction in Scotland and Mr Clarke is bringing 30 years of experience as its leader.

A new strategy for the industry will be launched at the annual conference on October 22.

Mr Clarke said: "Scotland's construction industry is key to the wellbeing of Scotland's economy, community and society. Its broad and diverse range of businesses, from designers, private and social house builders, commercial developers, to contractors, universities and major infrastructure, the industry contributes over £21bn to Scotland's economy every year.

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"It's no secret that the industry has been badly affected by the economic downturn over the years, but building on our key strengths and working together with the public and private sector partners, academia and industry representatives, we will realise our full potential and make an even bigger impact on the Scottish economy."

The industry's first annual Construction Scotland Industry Survey Analysis Report has also been released.

It shows that a quarter of Scottish construction businesses expect to grow over the next year, despite the economic downturn.

"This survey provides a fascinating look into the minds of people who are on the front line of Scotland's construction industry," Mr Clarke said.

"It gives us a clear picture of how businesses are feeling about the opportunities which lie ahead, what their intentions are over the coming months and what issues the industry is facing today."

(IT)