ABSTRACT
The construction industry is one of the key sectors of the UK economy, covering not only the production of buildings and structures but also their repair, maintenance and improvement. The importance of the construction industry to the UK economy cannot be underestimated. It not only contributes directly through the income and employment generated but it also contributes indirectly through enabling other areas of the economy with facilities such as housing, schools, hospitals, offices, shops, factories, warehouses and a variety of different infrastructure. Construction is a process involving architects and professionals, contractors, merchants and distributors, plant and tool hire in addition to construction materials and product manufacturers. Many private sector organisations such as trade associations, which are membership organisations, or economic research consultancies provide monthly or quarterly trade surveys and data in the construction industry. The independent Office for National Statistics provides an alternative source of data that cover activity within the construction sector in two different forms.
