The forum launched the consultation last week among its 50 member organisations, but now wants to hear from all other parties on what they want post Covid-19.

The questionnaire addresses multiple issues which are said to have not gone away during the pandemic and suggests that the sector cannot realistically go back to the way it was.

Len Bunton, owner of Bunton Consulting (pictured above), led the consultation, along with four quantity surveying firms, a representative from the Scottish Building Federation, and a former local chairman at Clydesdale Bank.

Len said that for everyone involved in construction, the ultimate objective for the post-pandemic future must be an industry which is not only fair and transparent, but allows contractors and the supply chain to operate profitable businesses. 

“The questions in the consultation will be put not only to the many trade and professional bodies in the forum, as well as their members, but to all parties engaged in the sector. 

“We are seeking the broadest possible body of opinion to help form policy in the coming months and years.

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“We want to look at the endemic problems of low tendering, low or no margins, and the lack of regard for competency and experience. 

“Serious cashflow and payment issues, poor quality and health and safety problems are also consistent concerns for the industry. 

“We also need to hear from public and private sector clients who are the lifeblood of the industry, as their investment creates employment for the construction sector in Scotland.”

Alan Wilson, CICV Forum chair and managing director at SELECT, added: “We appreciate that not everyone in the construction sector is represented by the forum — our major housebuilders, for example — and we are anxious that all parties within our industry contribute to the national debate on where we go next.”

It was announced recently that construction companies in Scotland could begin a phased return to work.