Scottish civils workloads fall for fourth consecutive quarter

Figures released today by the Scottish branch of the CECA Scotland show work continuing to slow and order books continuing to remain negative.

The concerning figures, based on the Civil Engineering Contractor’s Association (CECA)’s quarterly Workload Trends Survey, come as the Scottish Government prepares for its Budget on December 12.

Analysis of contractor feedback has revealed that many firms expect workloads to continue to fall even further over the next year.  91% of Scottish firms also report a rise in costs.

The Scottish results are in sharp contrast with the rest of the UK where civils contractors have reported that growth continues and outlook remains positive, with almost a third anticipating increased workloads over the next year.

Grahame Barn, chief executive of CECA Scotland, said: “These latest figures show there is no end in sight to the downward spiral in Scottish infrastructure workloads. As the Scottish Government consider their Budget for the year ahead, we would urge decisive action to halt the decline and restore confidence in the civil sector.

“Investment in infrastructure is vital to Scotland’s future economic success and prosperity and we will be meeting with government ministers in the weeks ahead to press for the extra investment needed now and for the future.”