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UK Construction Activity Shrinks for Ninth Consecutive Month

10/7/2025

39 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

UK construction activity contracted for the ninth month, as S&P Global PMI stood at 46.2 in September.
Business expectations remained subdued near late-2022 lows amid uncertainty and client hesitancy ahead of the Autumn Budget, seen as an infrastructure investment to restore sector confidence.
Employment fell for the ninth month as firms froze hiring and cut staff; some increased apprentice recruitment.

History

Historical Context

The UK construction sector has faced significant challenges since the 2008 financial crisis, which saw the PMI plummet to 34.5 and new orders decline by 50%. Subsequent events, including Brexit in 2016 and the COVID-19 pandemic, further destabilized the industry. As of 2023, the PMI stands at 46.2, highlighting ongoing client hesitancy and the need for substantial infrastructure investment to prevent further stagnation.

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Story summary

UK construction activity contracted for the ninth month, as S&P Global PMI stood at 46.2 in September.
Business expectations remained subdued near late-2022 lows amid uncertainty and client hesitancy ahead of the Autumn Budget, seen as an infrastructure investment to restore sector confidence.
Employment fell for the ninth month as firms froze hiring and cut staff; some increased apprentice recruitment.

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