FMB Cymru has hosted a major industry reception at the Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay to launch its manifesto ahead of the upcoming Senedd election in May 2026.
The event brought together representatives from across the Welsh construction industry and built environment sector to discuss the key challenges facing small and medium-sized building firms in Wales. The reception featured a cross-party panel discussion with Mabon ap Gwynfor MS (Plaid Cymru), Sam Rowlands MS (Welsh Conservatives) and Ifan Glyn, Director of FMB Cymru. The discussion was chaired by FMB Media Manager Iona Stewart-Richardson.
Tackling the housing crisis in Wales
A central theme of the event was the growing housing crisis in Wales. Panellists discussed housing delivery targets, barriers within Local Development Plans (LDPs), and the need to improve access to development finance for small, local housebuilders.
FMB Cymru’s manifesto calls for reforms that better support SME builders, who play a critical role in delivering new homes and strengthening local economies across Wales.
Retrofit, energy efficiency and heritage skills
The panel also explored the urgent need for a clear Welsh Government strategy on retrofit and energy efficiency in private housing. Discussions focused on raising standards in retrofit delivery, improving consumer confidence, and ensuring Welsh homes are fit for the future.
The importance of heritage skills was highlighted, particularly in Wales where many properties require specialist knowledge to upgrade energy performance whilst preserving historic character.
Addressing construction skills shortages in Wales
Construction skills and apprenticeships formed the third pillar of discussion. With the Welsh construction sector facing ongoing skills shortages, FMB Cymru is calling for improved funding allocation, stronger incentives for employers to offer apprenticeships, and expanded shared apprenticeship schemes.
Diversifying entry routes into the construction workforce is essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sector and delivering on Wales’s housing and net-zero ambitions.
Engaging Senedd candidates across Wales
The reception, kindly sponsored by Velux, was well received by industry stakeholders. FMB Cymru will now engage with Senedd candidates from across the political spectrum to promote our manifesto priorities and ensure the voice of small builders in Wales is heard clearly in the run-up to the 2026 Senedd election.
FMB Cymru extends its thanks to Velux for sponsoring the event and to all members and partners from across the Welsh built environment who attended.
Authors
Ifan Glyn
Ifan is the Director of Regions & Home Nations / Wales Director and in addition heads up of the FMB regional and devolved nations team. He is also a member of the FMB Senior Management Team. Ifan holds an MA in History from the University of St Andrews and an MSc in Welsh Government and Politics from Cardiff University.
