Commenting on the new construction output figures for May 2021 published by the ONS today, Clive Docwra, Managing Director of McBains, said:
“Given this is the second successive monthly fall in output after several months of steady growth, it shows just how fragile recovery remains in the construction sector.
“In addition, a continued shortage of materials – in particular cement, electrical components, timber and steel – is in turn fuelling price rises for construction firms, and increasing the risk of wider inflationary pressures.
“With commercial construction work expected to continue to pick up as offices return over the next few months, this materials shortage could also mean a bottleneck in the supply chain that means more projects may be put on hold, putting the revival at risk.”
In the Press
- City AM: UK economy grows 8% in May
- Building: May downpours hit output with warnings that decline will continue as materials and skills shortages bite
- Construction Index: Wet spring put dampeners on construction output
- Housing Today: Housebuilding work edges up in May
- PBC Today: Construction output falls in May as adverse weather impacts industry
- Scottish Construction Now: Adverse weather contributes to construction output decline
- Mortgage Strategy: Construction dips for second successive month in May: ONS
