It's part of a significant review of Falkirk's Building and Maintenance Division (BMD), which has been struggling with high absence rates, recruiting difficulties, high staff turnover, and an ageing workforce in recent years.

Falkirk Council's Scrutiny Committee members were told the review "is not a magic wand", but is already delivering improvements, which will continue to be made steadily.

The department, which had around 350 tradesmen before Covid, has seen that number reduce to just 195.

SNP councillor Jim Robertson questioned the idea of tradesmen being asked to do other jobs, but was told it would make the service much more efficient.

Falkirk Council's head of environment and operations, Douglas Gardiner, assured members that training will be provided.

He said: "I wouldn't expect a plumber to come in and start hanging doors - it would be basic skills.”

Members were told that employees who gain extra skills will be regraded and will get a higher wage, which will be more competitive, as so many are leaving for better-paid jobs in the private sector.

The report to Scrutiny also highlighted that the council has hired several apprentices—eight last year and 12 this year—to help address the skills shortage.

The significant review also includes using private contractors to do some work.

Private contractors are already fitting new kitchens - working with the housing team rather than BMD - as the service simply could not cope.