Activity in the UK construction sector has continued to rise for the last 12 months, according to financial information services company  Markit.

And for the first time in nine months, the monthly UK Construction Purchasing Managers Index recorded a rise in activity across all three broad construction sectors.

Civil engineering saw the fastest growth, while residential increased for a second month running. Commercial activity also rose, but at its lowest rate since December 2010.

New business received by UK construction companies increased for the third month running in December, although growth slowed slightly compared to the previous month.

Construction companies were optimistic in December that activity would increase in the next year. However, Markit said that the level of optimism remained relatively subdued.

Sarah Bingham, economist at Markit, said: “Optimism continues to be hindered by concerns regarding low client confidence and worries over wider economic and market conditions.”