Thirty two percent of firms reporting higher workloads, according to FMB


The fall in workloads for small building companies may be reaching an end after 10 consecutive quarters of decline, according to new figures from the Federation of Master Builders.

Thirty-two per cent of firms now report higher workloads, compared to 19% in the first quarter of 2010.

However the proportion of small builders who said that workload was decreasing in the second quarter of 2010 was still slightly higher than those who saw an increase in work.

Employment prospects for firms have slightly increased, with 60% anticipating no changes in staffing levels over the coming six months, an increase over the 56% saying the same three months ago.

The figures come as industry training body the Construction Skills Network has issued a warning that the recession could leave the country with a lack of skilled construction workers.

鈥淭he result could be chronic skills shortages in craft, technical and professional occupations which will impact on the industry鈥檚 ability to effectively contribute to the UK economy for years to come,鈥� it said in a statement.

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