BUILDERS in Lancashire can expect a boost from rising demand.

Although the construction industry locally is going through tough times, the county's branch of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors is predicting healthier prospects ahead.

"Lancashire's construction industry is in quite good shape, although its belt is inevitably tightening as the economic climate begins to slow," said Andrew Holt of the branch.

"But with stable costs, falling interest rates and low inflation, businesses in the region can enhance their property assets so they are placed when the economy bounces back"

Mr Holt said that building workers were also enjoying buoyant times.

A shortage of skilled labour meant that the industry was paying bricklayers, carpenters and plasterers wage increases well above the rate of inflation.

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