But the longer-term data show a slightly improved picture emphasising the volatility in the short-term estimates.
The output of new work is now 12.3% below its monthly peak of 拢6.6bn recorded in June 2011. The estimated figure for February this year is 拢5.8bn.
There were falls in both sub-sectors with new work falling 2.6% (拢160m) and repair and maintenance falling 3.1% (拢110m).
The three monthly (December to February) estimate of construction output is that all work grew 0.3% when compared with the previous three months (September to November) due to a 1% increase in new work. During this period repair and maintenance decreased 0.8% despite a slight rise of 0.3% in public housing repair and maintenance.
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