The S&P Global UK Construction PMI rose to 46.1 in September 2026 from 44.3 in August, missing expectations of 45.2 and signaling the slowest decline in construction output since January. Commercial construction showed the greatest resilience, falling only marginally, followed by civil engineering and residential construction with softer contractions. However, total new orders fell at the fastest pace since June amid sluggish market conditions, delayed decisions on major projects, and sharply rising input costs. Employment fell again, with job cuts accelerating the fastest in five months. Demand for construction products and materials also declined, while delivery times lengthened to the greatest extent since May amid shipping delays and supply chain disruptions related to the Middle East conflict. Meanwhile, input cost inflation eased to a seven-month low. Construction firms remained optimistic about the year ahead, although confidence fell to its lowest since May.