Civil engineering activity in the UK has risen at the fastest rate in almost two years, according to the latest CIPS/Markit construction PMI.

The report also predicted a rebound in business optimism amid hopes of infrastructure boost in 2019.

Other findings include a low expansion rate for business activity for three months and a soft rise in commercial work since May 2018.

Commenting on the figures, Mark Robinson, Scape Group chief executive, said: "It is very promising to see civil engineering activity rise at the fastest pace in 19 months. Evidently, the Government is recognising that investment in our infrastructure is vital to unlocking long-term regional growth, bringing local economies closer together and ultimately strengthening communities.

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"While gloomy economic conditions, political uncertainty and the traditional Christmas slowdown all contributed to a lull in overall construction output in December, this blip looks temporary as business optimism reached its highest level since April. But as industry optimism is pegged to large-scale infrastructure projects, it is essential that the Government commits to their delivery and projects don't fall by the wayside due to the electoral cycle.

"2018 was a bumpy ride for the construction industry – start to finish. But this year we must not let Brexit-related uncertainty hold us back. It is vital to remember that there will always be demand for new homes, roads and schools, regardless of our European status. Our focus now must be on replacing the vast amount of workers we are set to lose as a result of a new skills-based immigration system."

(CM/MH)