But latest figures from accounting giant PwC highlight the horrific toll of the recession as more than 5,000 construction firms have gone under since 2009.

New insolvency data shows there were  5,126 collapsed construction companies between Q3 2009 and Q2 2011.

Latest figures were more positive as construction suffered 17.7% fewer insolvencies during the second quarter compared to the start of the year.

Jonathan Hook, construction leader, PwC, said: “These figures highlight that construction in the UK is a long way from recovery.

“Whilst the number of insolvencies fell on the previous quarter of 2011, they are still 5% up on the equivalent quarter last year.

“Companies working on major infrastructure projects or on large frameworks are still busy, but the picture outside London and the South East is going to continue to be challenging.

“Work is being bid at very tight margins and I think things could well get worse before they improve.”