All non-essential construction work should stop, new Scottish Government guidance makes clear

All construction work should stop immediately unless it is part of an essential project, the Scottish Government has said in new guidance for the industry.

Even projects considered essential can only continue operating if they can comply with guidance on social distancing, safety and welfare during the COVID-19 outbreak, it says, with any site unable to meet these requirements to close.

Essential projects include those to create or repurpose facilities to deal with coronavirus, such as the setting up of new temporary hospitals; projects that will be used to accommodate key workers or free up space in facilities for coronavirus-related activities; projects that are considered essential public services; and the repair and maintenance of critical infrastructure.

Economy Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “We recognise that this is an extremely difficult time for businesses of all kinds, but the Scottish Government’s priority is saving lives and fighting COVID-19.

“To this end, all construction sites should close unless they are essential to the health and welfare of the country during this crisis.

“I want to make clear our thanks to the construction workers who are continuing to work on these essential projects.

“This guidance offers clear and comprehensive advice on how the industry should respond in these unprecedented and difficult times.

“I am grateful to the STUC, Unite the Union and Construction Scotland for their input.

“In this public health emergency, it is vital that all businesses act responsibly and align fully with the social distancing measures introduced to protect the nation’s heath, wellbeing and economic future.”