MORE than two-thirds of businesses in the North-East believe there is a shortage of skilled tradespeople, and many claim the situation hat got worse in the past two years.
It has led to more delays experienced by businesses before trade work can start, according to the latest Small Business Watch survey commissioned by Yellow Pages.
Research indicates that the South has suffered the most - nearly 70 per cent of businesses said that the shortages had worsened, followed by Yorkshire and Scotland (both 63 per cent).
Thirteen per cent of small businesses in the North-East reported unacceptable delays before a tradesperson could start work.
Nationally, the biggest delays were experienced with roofers at 28 per cent, followed by builders (26 per cent) and plumbers (24 per cent).
John Condron, chief executive of Yell, publisher of Yellow Pages, said: "The findings clearly indicate that small businesses, the entrepreneurial backbone of the country, are increasingly affected by shortages in the trade skills area. This is a serious trend and one which could have a major impact on the economy if it continues."
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