Civils contractors today said a fall in workloads in the first quarter of 2026 should sound an “alarm bell” that underlines the need for the UK government to accelerate infrastructure delivery.

Results from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA)’s Workload Trends Survey show  that, on balance, 7% of firms reported that workloads fell in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period a year earlier.

Overall, 27% of respondents reported that workloads had increased, one third reported that they had fallen, and 40% said they were unchanged.

Despite the fall in workloads, the survey found evidence of resilience in future demand. Order books rose in annual terms, with 19% of firms, on balance, reporting an increase, the highest rise in three quarters.

Looking ahead, a net 60% expect workloads to increase over the coming year, while 55% forecast growth in new work orders.

Supply constraints remain a concern. More than half of firms reported dissatisfaction with the supply of skilled operatives. Tender prices also continued to rise, with 57% of firms reporting higher tender prices for new construction work and improvement, and 56% reporting higher tender prices for repair and maintenance work.

CECA director of policy and public affairs, Ben Goodwin, said: “While it is disappointing to see workloads fall in the first quarter of the year, the wider picture is one of a sector that remains resilient and is looking ahead with confidence.

“Order books have strengthened, expectations for the next 12 months remain positive, and firms are continuing to expand their workforces. This shows that civil engineering contractors are ready to deliver the infrastructure the economy needs.

“But optimism in the pipeline must now be matched by delivery on the ground. Where workloads are falling, particularly in key areas such as preliminary works, communications, and strategic roads, there is a risk that delays will weaken confidence and make it harder for businesses to invest in people, plant and productivity.

“Under Sir Keir Starmer, the government had has rightly identified infrastructure as central to growth, resilience and national renewal. To turn that ambition into reality, the government must work with clients and industry to provide clear, stable and deliverable pipelines of work, backed by efficient procurement, early contractor involvement and faster decision-making.”