According to the sector’s latest quarterly workload trends survey, which dates back to 2005, it has never been harder for civils contractors to recruit skilled staff.

The survey of Civil Engineering Contractors Association members revealed the future supply of skilled operatives was the largest concern for firms in all parts of the UK.

CECA Director of External Affairs Marie-Claude Hemming said: “There are now serious concerns as to the ability to attract skilled staff to cope with a growing market.

“There is a substantial pipeline of work to be delivered in the coming years.

“Industry and Government need to work together through the Construction Sector Deal to respond to these challenges.”

Civil engineering contractors reported that they had experienced a marginal increase in work in the third quarter, with 10% of firms in England , on balance, reporting increased workloads, compared to 6% in the previous quarter.

This growth in workloads is partially offset by poor results from Scotland, where workloads fell for a fourth successive quarter.

Costs rose according to 89% of British firms on balance, the highest in nearly three years.

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