Construction professionals have seen the biggest increase to their workloads in the last quarter since 2007, according to the latest RICS construction market survey.
Last quarter, ten percent more surveyors across the country reported rising workloads. One of the main drivers behind this was the boost in private housing construction. While still historically low, the boost in house building would suggest that some of the government initiatives are quietly beginning to breathe life back into parts of the nation’s property sector.
Regional differences were apparent across the country. While London, the South East and the Midlands saw increases in construction, the likes of Northern Ireland and Scotland continue to see workloads slip. The sector in these parts of the UK remains particularly depressed and the picture shows no immediate signs of improving.
Looking ahead, surveyors expect the current more positive trend to continue. A net balance of 27 percent more respondents expect workloads to rise over the coming twelve months. It would appear that at long last, a little bit of confidence is gradually returning to the industry.
The increase in construction projects and the expectation of further gains, however limited, resulted in a welcome rise in job expectations. 22 percent more chartered surveyors anticipate employment levels rising over the coming year but the profit outlook is projected to remain depressed.
Simon Rubinsohn, RICS Chief Economist, commented:
“Although it’s far too early to start talking about a recovery in the construction sector, the rise in output at the beginning of the year is a little better news. The government’s attempts to stimulate the market seem now to be having some impact but there are still significant challenges to be overcome. In particular, the availability of finance and planning related issues continue to present obstacles to development”
