The Scaffolding Association says the latest construction output statistics offer little comfort to the sector
Logos & media used in this page may be protected by copyright and are reproduced in the context of Fair Dealing
Press Release
Published: September 3, 2021
Latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published earlier today, shows construction output in July 2021 was worth £257m (1.6% in volume terms) less than the month before the pandemic hit.
It is the second month in a row where construction activity remained lower than pre-covid levels according to the latest ONS figures.
Rising prices and supply chain issues were sighted as the main reasons for the decline. According to a recent Construction Index survey, respondents told the ONS that order book volumes were high, but shortages of products are impacting live projects which is hitting the industry hard in the short-term.
Weakened demand from private housing was the biggest contributor to July’s decline, which saw sharp falls in both new work, and repair and maintenance of 7.5% and 6.2% respectively compared with the previous month.
Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association said “Supply shortages, rising costs of materials and supply chain issues are all playing their part in this perfect storm.
A significant amount of construction is needed in the coming decade to fulfil the government’s plan for building 300,000 new homes per annum. The uncertainty around product availability and costs is already resulting in developers pausing or rethinking their development plans which will impact these ambitious targets”.
He added “Unfortunately there is no evidence to suggest that this situation will resolve itself anytime soon. The contributing factors are part of a global crisis, and it will be several months if not longer before things level out and we see some stability”.
Notes for editors
The Scaffolding Association is the UK’s largest dedicated trade association representing the Scaffolding and Access industry.
The construction sector employs 2.7millon people, contributes over £100bn to the UK economy which is 7% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Press Contact: Chris Seaton – [email protected] or 07979 531464
Budget Announcement Statement 2024
The Scaffolding Association expresses disappointment in the Autumn Budget, highlighting that it offers limited support to small and medium-sized enterprises … Read more
Maximise your chances of getting paid before Christmas with Holmes and Hills Construction Division
Scaffolding Association Partners – Holmes & Hills are hosting a FREE event with their Construction Division ‘Maximise your chances of … Read more
BSF joins forces with Considerate Constructors Scheme to champion safety in construction
We’re delighted to confirm that Building a Safer Future (BSF) has rejoined the Considerate Constructors Scheme family of businesses. BSF … Read more