The value of social housing construction projects starting on site in the second quarter was 40 per cent lower than a year ago according to the latest Glenigan Index.

The upward trend seen earlier this year in private housing has also petered out with the value of start on sites down two per cent on a year ago as housebuilders and consumers reappraise market conditions post-election. Overall these declines leave the Glenigan Residential Index down 20 per cent. “Whilst social housing starts are likely to remain under pressure over the coming months, a renewed recovery in private housing starts is anticipated at the end of the year as housebuilders capitalise on gradually improving market conditions” according to Allan Wilen, economics director, Glenigan.

“Private housing had previously been a source of optimism, as returning private sector confidence encouraged developers to invest in new work. However, this quarter’s dip in project starts highlights the fragility of the recovery. Poor household earnings growth and rising unemployment, combined with limited mortgage availability are expected to restrict the pace of recovery in new house sales and project starts during the remainder of 2010″ added Mr Wilen.

Retail project starts were down 23% in the three months to July compared to a year ago. This is expected to be a temporary blip in what has generally been a growth sector this year. The flow of office and industrial projects remains weak. Additionally, community and amenity, health and education have suffered amid election uncertainty and as departments review their spending programmes. Overall the Glenigan Non-Residential Index for the three months to July was 22 per cent down on a year ago. Despite restrictive fiscal policy over the next few years, a more widespread strengthening in private sector activity is anticipated over the two year forecast period supported by renewed private sector confidence and investment.

The Glenigan Civil Engineering Index for the three months to July was 39 per cent up on a year ago, after a weak start to the year. The Index was again boosted by a marked increase in new utility projects, such as water, energy and waste schemes. In addition, the value of underlying infrastructure project starts has increased by third, offsetting a recent drop in work. In particular growth was boosted by two railway projects in the South East of England with a combined worth of 160m.

The value of non-residential construction project starts also fell. Despite a return to growth in retail construction, the Glenigan Non-Residential Index for July is 14% down on a year ago. “Office and industrial project starts remain weak while community & amenity, health and education have suffered from government cuts” commented Mr Abraham.

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