November 2021 saw construction output rise by 3.5% in volume, which is the largest monthly increase since March 2021, new figures form the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show.

New work was the only driver behind this, moving up by 5.7%, while repair and maintenance fell by 0.2%.

The ONS report cites “anecdotal” evidence that supply chain bottlenecks easing, a strong demand for work, and with mild and dry weather powered November’s construction growth.

The data also shows that construction output in November was 1.3% above February 2020’s number (pre-pandemic), with repair and maintenance 6.9% above, although new work was 1.6% below.

Assetz Group chief executive Stuart Law comments: “Surprisingly, construction output grew 3.5% in November, while new private housing saw an even greater increase at 5.5% month-on-month.

“Nonetheless, in a year which saw construction output hampered more broadly by supply chain issues, inflation, post-Brexit trade struggles, and labour and material shortages, housebuilders have had a difficult time in increasing output to meet the huge demand for new homes.

“Despite today’s figures, I expect these issues will continue to prove challenging for housebuilders in 2022, as they also look to adapt quickly to meet new environmental regulations, achieve the required 31% reduction in carbon emissions, and satisfy new requirements around EV charging points.”