Construction Industry Growing Despite Supply Chain Issues

Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that construction output in the UK increased in September, which is the first increase for five months. However, the figures also show a fall in output over the third quarter of 2021, as the sector is beset by supply chain issues.

Building.co.uk reports that ONS data showed that monthly construction output grew by 1.3 per cent in volume terms during September, while new work and repair and maintenance both grew month-on-month by 1.3 and 1.2 per cent respectively.

However, the level of construction output in September remained 1 per cent (£141m) below levels seen in February 2020, before the coronavirus pandemic. New work was 3.5 per cent below this level, while repair and maintenance work was 3.9 per cent higher.

However, in contrast to more positive monthly figures, quarterly construction output fell by 1.5 per cent in Q3 compared to figures from Q2, with both new work and repairs and maintenance seeing decreases.

The annual rate of construction output price growth was 5.1 per cent in September, the strongest annual rate since records began in 2014.

Clive Docwra, the managing director of construction consultancy McBains said that Sepermeber’s figures show a return to growth that will help encourage the construction industry after five successive falls in monthly output.

He said that the industry will be cautious, as output is still below pre-pandemic levels.

“These quarterly figures also reflect supply chain problems linked to a shortage of haulage drivers, but these [problems[ should be past their peak. However, the cost of essential materials remains high, and skills shortages are still biting, leading to some new work being put on hold,” he said.

If you’re looking for fibre cement roofing sheets, #