West Midlands steel sector meets to address industry challenges

Four leading British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) members from the West Midlands, recently met up to discuss pressing industry challenges and explore potential opportunities for growth and collaboration.

The meeting, held at Midland Structures’ facility in Brierley Hill, was also attended by representatives from Angle Ring Company, Barnshaw Section Benders, Hadley Group, and the BCSA.

Key figures from the West Midlands Combined Authority, including Paul Edwards, Head of Economic Delivery and Development, and Alex Toft, Mayoral Advisor, were also in attendance.

Key topics on the agenda included cash retentions, a practice where steel contractors often face delayed payments for years until entire construction projects are completed, as well as the housing shortage and skills gaps, which are impacting the sector.

Attendees said, these pressing issues sparked a constructive dialogue on how the constructional steelwork industry and policymakers can collaborate for meaningful change.

BCSA Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Clemens, said: “This meeting underscores the strength of collaboration. By uniting industry leaders and policymakers, we’re creating a path toward solutions that will benefit not just our sector, but the economy as a whole.”