Activity in the construction industry has expanded for the first time in over two years since February 2008, according to the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS).

The CIPS conducted its monthly survey of contractors and construction purchasers and recorded an improvement of almost five points as it went above 50, which indicates a growth in activity, for the first time since February 2008, as it hit 53.1.

David Noble, chief executive officer at the CIPS, said: “Though it’s great to see the UK construction sector turn the corner after two years of relentless contraction, it’s still very early days. The recession hit construction the hardest, and this upturn may be short-lived. It’s worrying to see civil engineering contracting, given that mooted public sector spending cuts are yet to kick in.”

Commercial activity grew as well, for the first time since February 2008, though work in civil engineering continued to decline.