Construction sector is heading for record turnover

Turnover of the construction sector appears to be heading for a new record. In the first nine months of 2007, turnover rose by nearly 11 percent relative to one year previously. The sharpest increases were recorded in residential and non-residential building, plasterers, fitters and electricians.

Turnover construction sector, four-quarterly moving average

High turnover increase in residential and non-residential building

With 11 percent, the growth rate of turnover in residential and non-residential  building was high throughout the first three quarters of 2007.
This considerable growth rate is partly caused by last year’s sharp increase in the value of building permits granted for new houses, offices, shops, etc. Since early 2007, the value of building permits granted has, however, diminished. What the effect will be on turnover growth of residential and non-residential building is as yet unknown.

Turnover growth construction sector, 2007

Turnover growth civil engineering slows down dramatically

With 18 and 8 percent over the first and second quarter respectively, turnover growth in civil engineering was far from stable. In the third quarter, turnover growth crumbled away further to 4 percent.

July and September in particular were lean months. Rainy spells were frequent relative to last year, resulting in a decrease in hours worked.

Ron Duijkers, Rian van Gulijk-Boon and Wilco de Jong