Tackling the materials shortage will reverse declining construction activity

Government and industry must address the national shortage of building materials to reverse the decline in construction activity, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to ONS data released today on construction output.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Construction output fell in May, pointing to a fragile economic recovery for Britain’s builders. I am particularly concerned by the drop in repair, maintenance and improvement activities, given the high demand for home improvement works that builders are reporting. Action must taken to address the national building materials shortage, as this is restricting builders' ability to build back better and greener. A recent FMB survey found that 93% of builders reported material price increases in Q1 2021, which is an untenable situation. Manufacturers, merchants and builders must work together to maintain the supply of products to independent merchants so that smaller builders can continue to improve, upgrade and green the nation’s homes.”