THE UK’s construction sector has experienced its weakest level of growth for more than a year as a surge in house building slowed, a report has said.

The CIPS/Markit purchasing managers’ index survey recorded a reading of 59.4 for November.

The number was a fall from October’s 61.4 and was the lowest since October last year.

Any figure above 50 separates growth from contraction.

The report said while the construction level has held above 50 for 19 consecutive months, the rate of expansion for new business weakened.

However, it added job creation remained resilient and sub-contractor use increased.

Tim Moore, senior economist at Markit and report author, said: “Construction remains a strong growth engine in the UK economy, but momentum has undoubtedly cooled since the summer.

“November’s survey highlights that housing, commercial and civil engineering activity all expanded at the slowest rates for more than a year.

“Construction companies responded to rising workloads by boosting their staffing levels at an accelerated pace in November.

“Firms are optimistic overall about their growth prospects for the next 12 months.

“However, some noted uncertainties ahead of next year’s General Election had weighed on business confidence and influenced clients’ willingness to commit to new projects.”