A NEW Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum has taken immediate action to provide clarity for the sector in Scotland after advice from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon that all building sites should close, except those involving any hospital work.

The group was spurred by concern about conflicting messages from the UK Government about what construction work could be undertaken, and has issued guidance to companies and employees, along with an explanatory letter for customers.

It followed an appeal to the Scottish Government by the CICV immediately after its inauguration to help with cashflow and protect construction jobs against the “crippling” background of coronavirus.

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The forum has recommended its members follow Nicola Sturgeon’s advice about closing non-essential building sites; only carry out required repair, maintenance or emergency work until further notice; and suspend work such as building extensions or rewiring properties.

Vaughan Hart, managing director of the Scottish Building Federation, said: “It is of the utmost importance in these uncertain times to have the parameters clearly defined.

“The CICV Forum guidance makes it clear that, with the exception of sites classified by the First Minister as being essential, only repair and maintenance of an emergency nature should be undertaken in the construction industry.”