In August 2026, the S&P Global UK Construction PMI fell to 44.3 from 44.7 in July, marking the 20th consecutive month of contraction. ^[1] The S&P Global UK Services Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rose to 52.5 in August from 52.1 in July, representing the strongest growth since April. ^[2] The S&P Global UK construction PMI recorded a reading of 44.3 in August, down from 44.7 in July, indicating continued industry contraction. ^[3] Prime Minister Andy Burnham intends to ramp up the supply of social housing, and the weakness in the UK housebuilding sector underscores the challenge he faces. ^[4] Thomas Pugh, chief economist at RSM UK, stated that the sector continues to struggle against a backdrop of higher energy prices, elevated market interest rates, and persistent uncertainty over planning reforms. ^[5] Tim Moore noted that a sharp and accelerated drop in residential activity more than offset slower falls in the commercial and civil engineering sub-sectors. ^[6] Tim Moore, economics director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, stated that a faster downturn in house building was the main reason for the weaker overall performance during August. ^[7]