Output in the construction industry continued to rise last month, fuelled by the fastest increase in new work for seven months, according to the latest PMI survey.
The Purchasing Managers’ Index held steady at 59, well above the 50 level that separates a growing industry from one in decline. It is the joint highest figure recorded on the index, compiled by S&P Global and the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, since June last year.
The growth in new orders was prompted by the lifting of Covid restrictions at the end of January, which enabled many projects to start, according to the survey of 150 construction firms between 11 and 30 March. The level of commercial projects under construction rose to a nine-month high of 60.8 on the index, while housing construction fell from 61.5 in February to 54.9.
