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Around two-fifths of construction firms in the UK are expecting workloads to increase next year, according to new research.
A survey by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and tool hire firm Speedy Services found that 42 per cent of contractors expect to enjoy growth in 2012, although the majority of these companies expect growth to be weak.
The government's infrastructure plan announced in the Autumn Statement has improved the outlook for construction firms for the upcoming year, with more than three-quarters of companies planning to maintain or increase spending levels on training and investment in apprentices.
However, nine out of ten respondents claimed that public spending cuts will have a negative effect on operating conditions, while two-thirds claimed the UK's planning system is an obstacle to business.
Dr Neil Bentley, CBI deputy director-general, said: "The government has recognised the role construction can play in building a path to the recovery, and the sector is more than ready to play its part in generating economic growth.
"But the government must now move quickly to bring infrastructure projects to market so the sector can gear up and create jobs."
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