A CONSTRUCTION body has been launched to help building firms win a greater share of public sector work.

The Construction Alliance Northeast aims to show local and national Government that companies in the region deserve the chance to compete for contracts.

More than 500 businesses, represented by four of the area’s construction and engineering federations, voted in favour of the new organisation.

The alliance includes the Northern Counties Builders Federation (NCBF), the Federation of Master Builders, the National Federation of Builders and the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA).

Jeff Alexander, chairman of the alliance and NCBF, said: “The regional construction sector suffered badly from 2008 onwards.

“Firms were unwilling to invest in training and apprenticeships because of insufficient confidence in the market and this has left the regional industry with a skills problem at both ends of the age spectrum.

“However, through the alliance we will demonstrate the benefits of using a regional workforce, not only because of their local knowledge, their skills and experience but also because of the benefits to local supply chains.

“Given the Government’s plans for the Northern Powerhouse, I believe this is exactly the right time for us to press ahead.

“We aim to be a power for good in reforming procurement methods within the North-East construction industry.”

The 500 companies represented by the four federations have a combined turnover of £3bn and employ in excess of 100,000 people.

Chris Dancer, alliance vice-chairman and chairman of CECA, added: “It’s very encouraging we have been given the backing of so many federation members.

“It’s now time to give the sector a voice again.”