Builders and architects from across Shetland gathered at Trondra Hall for a breakfast networking session designed to strengthen collaboration and share insights on the opportunities and challenges shaping the local construction sector.

Co-hosted by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) and the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS), the morning combined informal networking with continuing professional development, encouraging closer ties between the two professions.

FMB Scotland Director Gordon Nelson and RIAS Head of Practice Zoe Black opened the event with introductions to their organisations. Attendees also heard from Scott Waldie of Shetland Islands Council's Building Standards Division, who outlined recent updates to Scottish Building Standards and relevant legislative changes.

Following breakfast, a Q&A enabled participants to put questions directly to speakers and explore practical ways to work more effectively together on future projects.

Commenting on the event, Gordon Nelson, FMB Scotland Director, said: "We brought together Shetland's master builders and chartered architects to discuss the common challenges they face in construction. Shetland's geography and formidable weather may be unique, but the open communication and collaboration between FMB and RIAS members here does not have to be. Builders and architects across the rest of the country have much to learn from the approaches taken in the northern isles to delivering exceptional buildings.

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"With unwelcome changes to how construction training is supported in Shetland, builders will now need to redouble their efforts in recruiting and developing skilled tradespeople, both to ensure new homes are built to a high standard, and so that the thousands of existing homes across the islands can be refurbished and upgraded."

Zoe Black, Head of Practice at RIAS, added: "It was refreshing to hear about the excellent working relationships already established in Shetland between chartered architects and skilled master builders. The issues raised underlined the particular challenges that can arise in interpreting Scottish Building Regulations in a remote island setting, where the availability and cost of materials can create unique pressures. Architects are keen to support builders in making the case for funding to train new craftspeople and upskill existing trades, so that Shetland can continue to deliver high-quality construction that meets, and exceeds, current energy standards with excellent design. We also heard clearly about the need for more affordable homes for local communities, with local chartered architects well placed to provide economic designs and work collaboratively with contractors ready to deliver excellent construction. Additional resources within the Planning Department would also make a meaningful difference, together with addressing local authority public procurement processes that appear to discriminate against local SME practices. We hope MSP Hannah Mary Goodlad might engage in future discussions to address the important issues raised."

The event forms part of continuing work by the FMB and RIAS to deepen cooperation between builders and architects, with the aim of improving project outcomes and promoting best practice across Scotland's construction industry.