.6 Jul 2020 21:29
The IHS Markit/CIPS UK construction purchasing managers' index rose to 55.3 in June from 28.9 in May.
It was the steepest expansion since July 2018 and well above consensus for a reading of 46.0 - any reading above 50.0 indicates growth.
The increase was attributed to the phased restart of work on construction sites, which boosted both output volumes and business confidence, and supply chains reopening.
"As the first major part of the UK economy to begin a phased return to work, the strong rebound in construction activity provides hope to other sectors that have suffered through the lockdown period," said Tim Moore, economics director at IHS Markit.
"While it has taken time for the construction supply chain to adapt and rebuild capacity after widespread business closure, there is now clear evidence that a return to growth that has been achieved."