The number of Specialist Contractors reporting an increase in orders in the second quarter of 2014 rose to 57%, up from 27% just over a year ago, according to the National Specialist Contractors Council (NSCC).

59% of Specialist Contractors are anticipating an increase in workload over the next quarter and a record high of 72% expect to see an increase over the next year. 84% of respondents reported they are now working at over 75% capacity with 43% over 90% capacity. This is leading to difficulties for some Specialist Contractors with 64% experiencing increased supplier prices and 19% reporting they are unable to bid for work due to skills shortages, well above the five-year average of 6%.

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NSCC Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol MBE said: "It's encouraging to see the early effects of the Construction Supply Chain Payment Charter with the result that more Specialist Contractors are now being paid within 30 days. Continuing this trend along with investing in the skills of our workforce to meet the current demand is essential if we are to sustain the growth we all want."

(CD/MH)