UK construction starts weakened in the three months through September 2026, according to Glenigan's October index. The value of underlying work fell 2% against the previous three months and 18% from a year earlier. The seasonally adjusted measure mainly covers projects worth no more than £100 million.
Residential starts declined 8% over the quarter and 33% annually. Social housing suffered particularly sharp falls. Private housing gained 4% compared with the preceding period, but remained 32% below its year-earlier level.
Non-residential activity dropped 15% quarterly and 16% annually, with retail and hotel and leisure projects among the weaker areas. Industrial starts rose 20% over the quarter, although they were still down year on year.
Civil engineering provided support, with starts increasing 101% quarterly and 43% annually. The report links stronger activity to electricity networks, transport and utilities investment. A £58 million electric vehicle charging project in East Ayrshire contributed to infrastructure growth.
Regional results varied. The North West recorded a 23% quarterly increase, but its activity still lagged the previous year by 17%.