Over the next 10-15 years the boroughs of Oldham & Rochdale will benefit from an unprecedented level of investment in major capital projects, on a scale that has not been witnessed for the past half century. It is estimated that more than £2 billion will be spent across a range construction schemes that will transform both towns and include new build housing schemes, new retail centres, town centre redevelopments, business parks, infrastructure projects, new schools, health centres and much more.
Given this, both Oldham & Rochdale Councils together with Hopwood Hall College and The Oldham College formed a unique alliance that resulted in the creation of J21. J21 is a Local Labour in Construction Initiative (LLiC) established in August 2005. The project symbolised the formation of a new partnership between four pivotal organisations, moving jointly into the 21st century (J21) to counter the skills shortage and ensure the local economies benefit from this investment.
J21 has the following objectives, to:
- Secure subcontracting opportunities for local businesses.
- Secure employment opportunities for local people ranging from new entrants, semi-skilled and skilled workers and professionals.
- Assist the strategic coordination of supply-side activities to help meet the skill requirements of the construction sector.
- Promote social inclusion and workforce diversity.
Since inception, J21 has positioned itself as a one-stop-shop for the construction sector, providing a free range of services to local businesses and assisting developers/main contractors deliver community benefit, in tandem with the construction process.