Bricklayers tools suitable for undertaking energy efficiency home improvements could be in renewed demand thanks to the government's Green Deal.

The initiative aims to make the entire UK housing stock more eco-friendly, including both privately owned and rented accommodation.

Stephen Radley, director of policy and external affairs at manufacturers' forum the EEF, says the scheme "for the first time" gives some small firms access to energy-saving measures.

"It also has the potential to open up a whole new market for energy-efficient materials and equipment," he adds.

Employment estimates alone suggest the number of green-collar workers could increase from 27,000 now to 250,000 over the next two decades.

This is based on mass uptake of the Green Deal resulting in an overhaul of all 26 million properties in the UK.

A likely knock-on effect in terms of demand for bricklayers tools might be expected as these new construction workers equip themselves for their jobs.

The Green Deal is part of the Energy Security and Green Economy Bill, which the Department of Energy and Climate Change says represents a "step change" in delivering energy-efficiency options to businesses and homes.

Posted by Charlie Parkin