Scottish Construction Costs Ease Amid Tendering Challenges
Scotland: Construction input costs in Scotland have risen by an average of 4% over the past year, according to the Building Cost Information Service’s (BCIS) Scottish contractor's panel. This marks a slight decrease from three months ago when the panel reported a 5% year-on-year increase in input costs. In its fourth-quarter 2024 report, the BCIS highlights this moderation to 4%. Panelists identified several logistical challenges, including tenders issued with inadequate information, short tender periods, and limited responses to requests for additional details or clarifications.
Subcontractors demonstrated a steady interest in tendering, with no indications of either extreme eagerness or a lack of participation. Contractors themselves reported being selective about tendering, basing their decisions on factors such as risk profiles, procurement routes, and the maturity of design information. While panellists noted no shortage of work to bid on over the next 12 months, they highlighted a lack of visibility regarding upcoming tenders as a concern.
Source: Building Cost Information Service’s (BCIS)