Shetland builders and architects unite to tackle construction challenges

By Danny BallPublished On: June 24th, 2026Categories: Top Stories

Builders and architects from across Shetland have come together to discuss common industry challenges, skills shortages and housing delivery as part of a joint networking and professional development event hosted by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) and the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).

Held at Trondra Hall, the breakfast event brought together members of both organisations to strengthen collaboration between construction professionals and explore the issues affecting project delivery in Scotland’s northern isles.

The session included presentations from FMB Scotland Director Gordon Nelson, RIAS Head of Practice Zoe Black and Scott Waldie from Shetland Islands Council’s Building Standards Division, who provided an update on Scottish Building Standards and recent legislative changes.

Skills shortages and training concerns raised

A key theme of the event was the challenge of attracting and developing the next generation of skilled construction workers in Shetland.

Speaking at the event, Gordon Nelson highlighted concerns around changes to construction training support and the impact this could have on the local workforce.

He said: “We brought together Shetland’s master builders and chartered architects to discuss the common challenges they face in construction. Shetland’s geography and formidable weather may be unique, but the open communication and collaboration between FMB and RIAS members here does not have to be. Builders and architects across the rest of the country have much to learn from the approaches taken in the northern isles to delivering exceptional buildings.

“With unwelcome changes to how construction training is supported in Shetland, builders will now need to redouble their efforts in recruiting and developing skilled tradespeople, both to ensure new homes are built to a high standard, and so that the thousands of existing homes across the islands can be refurbished and upgraded.”

Building standards and housing delivery discussed

Discussions also focused on the practical challenges of delivering construction projects in a remote island location, including the availability and cost of materials and the interpretation of Scottish Building Regulations.

Zoe Black said: “It was refreshing to hear about the excellent working relationships already established in Shetland between chartered architects and skilled master builders. The issues raised underlined the particular challenges that can arise in interpreting Scottish Building Regulations in a remote island setting, where the availability and cost of materials can create unique pressures.

“Architects are keen to support builders in making the case for funding to train new craftspeople and upskill existing trades, so that Shetland can continue to deliver high-quality construction that meets, and exceeds, current energy standards with excellent design.”

Call for affordable housing and procurement reform

The event also highlighted concerns around affordable housing provision, planning resources and procurement processes.

Black added: “We also heard clearly about the need for more affordable homes for local communities, with local chartered architects well placed to provide economic designs and work collaboratively with contractors ready to deliver excellent construction. Additional resources within the Planning Department would also make a meaningful difference, together with addressing local authority public procurement processes that appear to discriminate against local SME practices.

“We hope MSP Hannah Mary Goodlad might engage in future discussions to address the important issues raised.”

Construction collaboration in Scotland

The event concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing attendees to discuss challenges directly with speakers and explore opportunities for closer collaboration between architects and contractors.

The networking event forms part of ongoing efforts by the FMB and RIAS to encourage greater cooperation across the construction sector and support best practice throughout Scotland.