Construction input costs are rising at their fastest pace in 17 years, but have failed to dampen the outlook amongst developers for the remainder of the year. The latest Ulster Bank Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index published this morning shows the reading jumped to 49.3 in April compared to 30.9 in March as residential construction sites opened up again and new orders increased. Housing construction activity showed a sharp improvement in April, with the index for the sector rising to 54.8 from 33.8 in March. Commercial activity rose to 42.2 from 31.3 in March, while civil engineering hit 43.1 compared to 23.8 previously. There is a global issue with supplies of core building supplies.

Source: Irish Independent May 17, 2021 01:30 UTC