The UK construction sector made a surprise return to growth last month after fears of a recession receded.
Activity grew at its strongest in nine months in February, according to the latest CIPS/S&P purchasing managers’ index.
The PMI, closely watched by the Bank of England when it makes interest rate decisions, recorded a rise to 54.6, up from 48.4 in January. The score is well above the 50 mark that separates growth from decline, with the sector outperforming expectations that it would remain in negative territory.
