The construction sector has ended a sluggish summer with a dip in output, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The sector lagged behind the wider economy, which grew by 0.1% in August.
Many builders struggled to move from preconstruction to live site starts due to ongoing investor caution. However, private housing repair and maintenance saw a 5.6% increase, driving output up by 0.3% over the three months to August.
“Today’s figures reflect the subdued economic picture in the industry at present, with output falling by 0.3% following no growth in July, and underperforming against the overall economy which grew by 0.1% in August.” - Clive Docwra, Managing Director of McBains
Some economists have questioned the reliability of these figures, which have fluctuated sharply over the last few years.
Author's summary: Construction output dips in August due to investor caution.