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The UK construction sector defied negative forecasts to expand at its fastest rate in five months in October, according to new research.
The latest Markit/Cips construction purchasing managers' index (PMI) from data analyst firm Markit and the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply shows construction output rose to 53.9 in October from 50.1 in September.
Analysts had forecasts that the PMI would fall to 50.0, which would represent a period of no growth.
David Noble, chief executive at the Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply, said: "UK construction output experienced a rebound in October, and accelerated at some pace after a broad stagnation in September.
"Reports of new contract wins from previously quoted projects and some advance orders for 2012 led to the steepest increase in new business since the spring."
Mr Noble added that it may still be "some time" before the construction sector begins to grow on a consistent basis.
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