Users of concreting and bricklaying tools have been advised that construction output is likely to stay fairly static in 2010.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) stated this week that the overall output in the sector dropped by 1.1 per cent between October and December 2009.

According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics), this demonstrates the ongoing strain the construction industry is currently under.

Simon Rubinsohn, chief economist at the group, said activity in the sector is likely to be further hit by efforts to scale back the UK's budget deficit after the general election.

As a result, he believes construction output over the next 12 months "is likely to be broadly flat".

The latest figures come after a report from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply said the construction sector is still in recession.

This is despite the fact the UK economy grew by 0.3 per cent during the last quarter of 2009.
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