Representing more than one in 10 jobs in the South West, the Construction sector is one of the region’s largest employing industries and a key enabler of growth.

Strong population growth, housing supply pressures and significant public and private infrastructure investment are driving sustained demand across the built environment, from residential development to major civil and industrial works.

The industry combines workforce depth with specialist capability, supported by a broad base of local contractors able to deliver complex regional infrastructure - including major health, civic and industrial expansions - at scale.

Construction Fast Facts

• Construction employs 8,780 people, accounting for 10.9% of South West jobs.
• Recent building approvals include 1,758 new houses and 77 other residential approvals, reflecting sustained residential demand.
• The value of building approvals totalled $993.5m for residential construction, alongside $402m non-residential investment across commercial, industrial and civil projects.
• There are 3,461 construction businesses operating in the South West, nearly 20% of all businesses in the region.

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