The UK construction sector contracted for the fourth consecutive month in April, with firms facing persistent economic uncertainty and reduced client demand.
According to the latest S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), the industry recorded a score of 46.6 in April, marginally higher than March’s 46.4 but still below the 50 mark that signals growth. While the pace of contraction eased slightly, the sector remains in decline.
The report highlighted broad hesitancy among clients to commit to new projects, particularly amid ongoing global economic instability. Residential building activity slipped again but showed some resilience with a reading of 47.1, marking its strongest performance in 2025. Civil engineering output remained subdued at 43.1, driven by a shortfall in new contracts to replace completed work.
Commercial construction was the weakest performer, with output falling faster since May 2020, reflecting rising caution in the business sector.
