Published • loading... • Updated
UK Construction Industry Declines at Slowest Rate for Eight Months
The reading rose to 46.1 from 44.3, but new orders stayed subdued and house building remained the weakest area, S&P Global said.
- The Global construction PMI rose to 46.1 in September, improving from 44.3 in August and marking the strongest industry performance for eight months, though remaining below the 50.0 growth threshold.
- Tim Moore, economics director at Global Market Intelligence, noted all sub-sectors stabilized relative to rapid declines earlier in 2026, though the industry remains in contraction after consistent declines since January 2025.
- Commercial building activity saw its smallest decline since May 2025, while House building remains the weakest performer. Moore said new orders were 'relatively subdued', with around 25% of firms reporting rising purchasing costs.
- Carly Thorpe, construction and engineering partner at Walker Morris, said 'The modest improvement in September' reflects stronger civil engineering and favourable weather conditions. Reduced workloads caused continued job cuts, with employment falling each month since January 2025.
- Market activity continues shifting from residential development toward infrastructure-led sectors like transport and data centres. These areas maintain stronger investment pipelines, supporting the industry as it edges closer to recovery.
Insights by Ground AI
5 Articles
5 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources5
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Left, 50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left, 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 50%
C 50%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
