20 per cent decline in detailed planning approvals against the previous year6 per cent decline in main contract awards against the previous year8 per cent decrease in project starts against the previous yearUK construction activity was mixed in the latest period. Detailed planning approvals rose 13 per cent on the preceding three months, driven by a 39 per cent increase in major (£100m+) approvals, strengthening the future pipeline. Detailed planning approvals were down 20 per cent, largely due to fewer major project approvals. Stronger planning approvals point to underlying demand, but weaker awards and starts highlight ongoing challenges around viability, financing and investor confidence. Interest rate movements, construction cost inflation and government infrastructure investment will be critical in determining whether the stronger pipeline translates into sustained growth in project activity.