Latest reports from construction industry analysts Barbour ABI show that the North West were awarded 16% of new construction contracts by value in July; only London showed a higher proportion at 20% with the South East rating at 11%.
According to Barbour ABI data on all contract activity, July witnessed an increase in construction activity levels with the value of new contracts awarded at £6.5bn, based on a three-month rolling average.
This is a 5% increase from June and a 28.7% increase on the value recorded in July 2014. The number of construction projects within the UK in July increased by 8.1% on June, but were 11.7% lower than July 2014.
In the North-west a major renewable energy project, the Burbo Bank offshore wind farm extension, was the highest value contract awarded in July. This contract has an estimated value of £250m and is due to be completed over two years.
Regional mayors granted greater powers over planning decisions 
Record 269,000 visits give Merseyway its busiest ever week 
First commercial operators open at Weir Mill