Output in the construction industry in April increased 2.5% compared with March, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics published today (10 June).

New work increased by 2.9% and repair & maintenance increased by 1.9%.

Compared with April last year, output decreased by 3.7%.

The underlying pattern suggested by the three month movement to April compared with the same period last year shows a decrease of 2.1%.

New orders for the construction industry in Quarter 1 (Jan to Mar) this year were down 1.2% compared with Quarter 4 of last year and down 1.2% compared with Quarter 1 2015.