In the ever-evolving landscape of the UK construction industry, the role of a Chief Construction Adviser (CCA) looms large. This pivotal position, designed to provide cross-departmental coordination and leadership on construction policies, is a testament to the industry’s complexity and the necessity for expert guidance at the governmental level. Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Michael Lawson, a seasoned construction manager and former adviser to key industry players, to gain insights into the indispensable nature of the CCA role and its impact on the sector. Our conversation was enlightening, shedding light on both the historical significance and the current need for a CCA. Here’s a recounting of that conversation.
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The Inception and Evolution of the Role
“The creation of the Chief Construction Adviser post in 2008 was a landmark decision,” Michael began, his eyes reflecting a deep respect for the role. “It was a response to the growing recognition that the construction industry needed a unified voice and strategic oversight. The appointment of Paul Morrell as the first CCA was a game-changer. His expertise as a quantity surveyor and his leadership at Davis Langdon brought a wealth of practical experience to the table.”
Michael explained how Morrell’s focus on leveraging government purchasing power and implementing Building Information Modelling (BIM) for public projects laid a robust foundation for reducing tender prices and enhancing efficiency. “Morrell’s tenure was marked by pragmatic steps that had tangible benefits—something that only someone deeply entrenched in the industry could achieve.”
The Strategic Impact
“The role of the CCA was not just about providing advice,” Michael emphasised. “It was about steering the entire industry towards a more sustainable and economically viable future. The Government Construction Strategy, under the guidance of the CCA, aimed to reduce public sector construction costs by up to 20%. This was ambitious but necessary.”
He went on to describe how the strategy called for a fundamental shift in the relationship between public authorities and the construction industry. “Ensuring that the government consistently gets a good deal, while the country benefits from the needed social and economic infrastructure, requires in-depth knowledge and practical experience. The CCA was the linchpin in this transformative process.”
The Necessity of Practical Experience
One of the recurring themes in our conversation was the critical importance of practical experience. “The minister needs to turn to someone who not only understands the theoretical aspects but has been on the ground, facing the real challenges of construction projects,” Michael stated. “This is where the value of a CCA comes into sharp focus. They bring a blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience, which is crucial for informed decision-making.”
Michael recounted his own experiences, working alongside various CCAs. “I’ve seen firsthand how their insights can mitigate risks and streamline processes. For example, during Peter Hansford’s tenure, his background as President of the Institution of Civil Engineers and as an executive director at the Nichols Group enabled him to navigate and address the multifaceted issues of the industry adeptly.”
The Abolition and Its Aftermath
The abolition of the CCA role in 2015 was a significant blow, according to Michael. “The restructuring of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and the subsequent scrapping of the CCA position felt like a step back. The industry lost a central figure who could unify various stakeholders and drive policy forward.”
He highlighted the concerns raised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Construction Industry Council (CIC) regarding the loss of the CCA. “RIBA rightly pointed out that the absence of a CCA could lead to a disjointed approach, with silos developing in the new structure. The CIC even proposed that the industry itself fund the role to maintain its benefits—an indication of how vital this position was deemed to be.”
The Call for Reinstatement
Reflecting on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and its recommendations, Michael’s tone turned somber. “The Grenfell tragedy underscored the necessity for expert advice at the highest levels. The inquiry’s call for reinstating the CCA role was a stark reminder of the gaps that need to be filled.”
He continued, “The minister will need to be able to turn for advice to someone with a comprehensive understanding of construction. This isn’t a luxury; it’s a critical need. The CCA, with a sufficient budget and staff, could provide the necessary oversight and guidance to prevent such disasters in the future.”
Looking Ahead
As our conversation drew to a close, Michael offered a hopeful perspective. “While the official role of the CCA may no longer exist, the need for such a position is clearer than ever. Whether through the reinstatement of the role or through other means, the industry requires a dedicated advisor who can bridge the gap between policymakers and the realities of construction.”
In retrospect, our discussion illuminated the enduring importance of the Chief Construction Adviser. It’s a role that serves as both a beacon of expertise and a linchpin for strategic coherence in the construction industry. As the sector continues to navigate its challenges, the wisdom and practical experience that a CCA brings could very well be the cornerstone of its future success.
Tobiasz Karcz
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