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 9,852 people, accounting for 11% of South West jobs.
• Recent building approvals include 1,498 new houses and 113 other residential approvals, reflecting sustained residential demand.
• The value of building approvals totalled $971m for residential construction, alongside $297m 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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