NEWSBRIEF

statistics show less new construction

The total volume of new construction orders for the second quarter of 1998 was 4 per cent lower than the first quarter, but unchanged compared with the second quarter of 1997, according to the latest DETR statistics. Private housing was 7 per cent lower than 1997, while public housing was down 12 per cent. Infrastructure was 12 per cent down on 1997, public non-housing was up 31 per cent, private industrial 3 per cent down and private commercial 4 per cent higher.

economic activity downswing expected

A reduction in economic activity is expected in the construction industry over the next six months according to 600 engineering firms surveyed by the Association of Consulting Engineers. Some 55 per cent of firms expected a reduction in workload, 38 per cent saw the situation remaining unchanged and just seven per cent believed it would improve.

road surface joint venture mooted

A new joint venture between Tilcon Scotland and Peter Lawless Road Planing is set to recycle "tens of thousands of tonnes of road surface materials" for use on different road projects. Linear Quarry Products will recycle road planings and other materials such as concrete through the foamed bitumen process.

highways agency awards new contracts

The Highways Agency has awarded two contracts in its £27.4m scheme to redesign and replace all 4,850 green-backed direction signs on London's primary route network. Fitzpatrick Contractors will carry out work on the eastern side and J Murphy and Sons in the south west. North west London will be awarded later.

detr new dwellings figures released

An estimated 15,500 dwellings were started in the UK in June 1998 compared with 16,700 in June 1997, according to latest figures from the DETR. Completions numbered 15,700 compared with 16,800 in the previous year. The three monthly figures show 47,500 starts (down 6 per cent on 1997) and completions of 43,600 (down 3 per cent on the same quarter in 1997).

fourteen firms insolvent in june

Fourteen construction firms went under in June according to statistics, released last week by accountant consultants Deloitte Touche. The figure was up on the previous month when 12 construction companies fell into insolvency. However, Deloitte said the overall level of company failures was still far below those for the same period last year.

newcastle airport plans new link

A new public transport interchange is being planned for Newcastle International Airport. Improving access between the Metro Station and the airport is a priority along with a new bus and coach station. The airport is seeking a developer to fund the transport links in exchange for the right to construct offices and retail accommodation worth between £15 and £20 million.

use of plastic drainage pipes approved

The DETR has said that plastic pipes may be used for underground drainage and sewage projects. Specification of materials for sewerage systems is to be left to the sewerage undertaker, providing they use appropriate materials and installation methods. The plastic pipe industry is hailing the decision as a victory for its products.