Monthly UK construction output is estimated to have dropped by 1.4% in April 2024, with the monthly value in level terms at £14.9bn, according to the latest figures from the ONS.
At the sector level, seven out of the nine sectors saw a fall in April 2024; the main contributors to the monthly decrease were private housing new work, and private housing repair and maintenance, which fell by 4.4% and 2.5%, respectively.
Commenting on the latest figures Beard Construction finance director Fraser Johns said: “Given the poor weather conditions seen in April, it should be hardly surprising to see a drop in monthly construction output. A sixth consecutive fall in the three-month series is more troubling, however it shows the mixed bag of the industry in the current climate.
“While there are those across the country undoubtedly experiencing challenges and significant pressures, from our perspective, the south of England remains incredibly buoyant with growing confidence and demand from both clients and from regional and national frameworks helping to fill our pipeline.
Johns added: “Despite today’s data, momentum does seem to be building, as is confidence. We are still expect some bumps in the road, particularly with the upcoming General Election, but even so, we certainly believe that the prospects look good for the remainder of the year.”
AJ Bell head of financial analysis Danni Hewson commented: “April’s lack of growth should come as no surprise. ‘Rain stopped play’ is the best way to describe things as builders shunned roof tops and shoppers deserted high streets in favour of their warm, dry sofas.
“The long-term trend for construction is more worrying. Output has fallen for three consecutive months and there’s little surprise that so much focus has been placed on housebuilding by political parties, all hoping their policies can deliver a sustained growth spurt for the UK.”
