DESPITE an economic downturn the construction industry in Lancashire is set to remain strong, according to a report out today.

Employment in the industry is continuing to grow in the county despite an overall levelling off in orders.

"Growth in the region's construction industry has slowed and total workload dropped, but Lancashire and the rest of the north west remains fairly strong in relation to the rest of the UK," said Michael Edwards from the county branch of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Although new building projects across the country are being inhibited by a nervous economy, Lancashire showed remarkable resilience and employment in the construction industry continues to grow, the RICS believes the climate is not as bleak as suggested.

Said Michael: "While employment growth will undoubtedly slow down, carpenters, bricklayers, plumbers, plasterers and a variety of other skilled operatives are still in demand.

"Although the industry is experiencing a slowdown, spending looks like it will remain high in spite of the gloomy anticipated national forecast."

He went on: "Lancashire is in good shape to weather the storm, but the region cannot hope to remain immune from the general economic slowdown forever and must get set for a bumpy ride over the next year or two."

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