DEMAND for heavyside construction materials is set to fall for a fifth consecutive year in 2026, with a ‘meaningful recovery’ not expected until 2028, according to a new report from the Mineral Products Association (MPA).
The MPA’s Regional Overview of Construction and Mineral Products Markets in Great Britain presents a guide to construction activity and the demand for aggregates, concrete, asphalt and mortar across nine English regions, plus Scotland and Wales.
Among the main headwinds facing mineral products demand has been the prolonged downturn in new-build housing activity.
Growth in mineral products demand is expected to rely heavily on infrastructure delivery, including investment in energy generation and water and sewerage projects, which should support activity in the Scotland as well as the east of England and Wales.
Drawing on a range of industry and official sources, the report combines historical trends with market forecasts.
Luke George, economist at MPA, said, “Construction activity is often discussed at the national level, but market conditions and growth opportunities often vary significantly between regions. By combining key construction indicators with MPA’s robust sales volumes data, this report provides a practical resource for analysing and understanding the factors shaping construction activity and mineral products demand across Great Britain. With no growth expected next year, the recovery is now unlikely before 2028.”
Mark Russell, MPA executive director for planning and mineral resources, added, “Mineral products are essential to the delivery of homes and infrastructure, and fundamental for driving economic growth. Effective planning for future supply requires an understanding of how construction demand is changing across different parts of the country. This report provides valuable evidence for every region that can help support informed decision-making to ensure a sufficient and timely supply of mineral resources are available where and when they are needed.”
