Work in Construction

 

‘The construction industry in Norwich is marked by a unique blend of historic preservation, sustainability, and rapid urban development.’

Kelly Cartwright is the owner of Core Recruiter and Board Member of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce and Co.Next.

This blog summarises what the construction industry is like in Norwich and Norfolk. What makes it different to other places? What are the opportunities for skilled workers?

Continue reading for an expert’s insight into this ever changing industry…

I have worked in Norwich all of my career; for the last 15 years and am the owner of Core Recruiter.

The construction industry in Norwich is marked by a unique blend of historic preservation, sustainability, and rapid urban development. Known for its medieval architecture and historical buildings, Norwich has a strong focus on heritage restoration, requiring specialised skills to preserve and adapt old structures.

Additionally, the city places a high priority on sustainable construction, with green building practices and energy-efficient designs integral to new projects, aligning with both local and national carbon-reduction goals. With a growing demand for affordable housing, Norwich has also seen an increase in residential projects, supported by the Greater Norwich Local Plan.

However, like much of the UK, Norwich faces a skilled labour shortage.

This is particularly the case in trades and green construction expertise, pushing local construction firms to invest more in training and apprenticeships to meet this demand.

 

Norwich offers diverse opportunities for construction industry professionals, ranging from residential and commercial development to specialised heritage restoration.

With ongoing housing projects to meet population growth, skilled tradespeople, site managers, and project planners are in high demand.

The city’s commitment to preserving its historic architecture also creates niche roles for specialists in restoration and conservation, essential for integrating Norwich’s medieval structures with modern usage.

 

Additionally, sustainability-focused initiatives in Norwich align with broader UK goals for carbon reduction, encouraging innovation in green building practices. This shift opens doors for professionals skilled in eco-friendly design, energy-efficient technologies, and green infrastructure, especially as major nearby projects like Sizewell C bring further investment and job opportunities in the region.

The recruitment industry in construction differs from other sectors due to the highly specialised skills required, particularly in trades like carpentry, bricklaying, and project management, as well as in emerging areas like sustainable building and heritage restoration. To supply skills to meet the growing demand of this workforce we now collaborate with schools and training providers to help build a sustainable pipeline of talent.

If you’re looking for work in construction in and around Norwich or you’re looking for help with your recruitment, you can contact Kelly and her team.

Contact CORE

Kelly’s top picks in Norwich

Norwich and Norfolk are full of beautiful spots to enjoy with friends and family! In Norwich, I love visiting Norwich Cathedral, with its stunning architecture, peaceful cloisters, and the beautiful garden area, which is perfect for a calm afternoon. Norwich Market is another favourite—a vibrant, historic market with colourful stalls offering everything from local foods to unique crafts. Nearby The Lanes is also charming, with its independent shops, cafes, and quirky spots that add so much character to the city.

Heading out into Norfolk, the Norfolk Broads are fantastic for a scenic boat trip or walk; you can spot wildlife and enjoy the peaceful water landscapes. The North Norfolk Coast, with beaches like Holkham and Wells-next-the-Sea, is perfect for a day by the sea—long stretches of sandy shore, beach huts, and coastal walks. Blakeney Point is another great spot if you enjoy seeing wildlife, especially the seals!

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