Construction up slightly last month

Construction increased at a slightly faster pace in September but the rates of growth in new orders and employment both eased, according to the latest Ulster Bank purchasing managers’ index (PMI), writes Pádraig Hoare.

The index, which measures changes in total construction activity, rose slightly to 56.5 in September from August’s 29-month low of 55.1. Any reading over 50 represents an expansion in activity.