In
June 2019 the RIBA Future Trends Workload Index increased to +9, after
remaining steady at +5 for three consecutive months.
The
North of England was especially positive at +39, continuing its run of
returning the highest balance figure of any region. The South of England showed
increased optimism, increasing by 16 points to +19; Wales & The West also
had a positive outlook (+13).
Practices
in London were more pessimistic about future workloads than other areas, as the
balance figure fell to -8, while Midlands & East Anglia has remained at the
same level, returning a balance of zero.
Large
practices (51+ staff) showed the highest increase in confidence in June,
returning a balance of +33, up from +20 the previous month. Medium-sized
practices (11 - 50 staff) continued to be positive, returning a figure of +30
and small practices (1-10 staff) recorded a three point rise (+5).
While
the private housing sector remains the most resilient reported on (+1), all
sectors recorded a decrease and this month’s report suggests a fragility of the
market. The commercial sector dropped 4 points this month (to zero), the
community sector remains at -4 and the public sector slipped back to negative
territory (-2).
The
RIBA Future Trends Staffing Index increased to +2 this month.
RIBA
Head of Economic Research and Analysis, Adrian Malleson, said: “The commentary
from practices this month focuses largely on the fragility of the current
architectural climate. Some drew attention to Brexit creating an unpredictable
market, in which it is increasingly difficult for both clients and architects
to make, and commit to, business plans. However, with a focus on quality work
and the international market, many practices continue to thrive.”
