Research conducted by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) found that a net balance of 48% of surveyors reported an increase in private housebuilding workloads during the third quarter of 2016. 

Michael McCord, construction partner at Tughans Solicitors, said: “The latest survey chimes with much of the other data of late, which has pointed to a stronger economy than perhaps had been anticipated.

“Activity inside Northern Ireland itself may remain subdued, other than an uptick in residential development, but the local sector continues to find work outside of Northern Ireland, demonstrating the quality of the work our local professionals deliver.

“Clearly some uncertainty lies ahead, but on the positive side, the weakening of sterling could help increase the competitiveness of Northern Ireland companies working south of the border.”

Private commercial activity also remained strong, with 23% reporting a rise in workload.

Furthermore, Northern Ireland’s surveyors appeared positive about the potential for growth, with a net balance of 50% expecting workloads to increase over the next 12 months.

Nevertheless, Jim Sammon, RICS construction spokesperson for Northern Ireland, cautioned that these figures did not necessarily indicate that the region would be unaffected by Brexit.

“The picture painted by the Q3 survey is one of growth, and expectations have improved following the immediate shock of the vote to leave the EU,” Jim admitted.

“However, Northern Ireland’s construction sector remains heavily dependent on work in GB, and the survey tells us, crucially, that infrastructure activity remains very subdued.

“There is also anecdotal evidence from respondents suggesting that uncertainty still remains … for the year ahead.”