THE UK's construction industry unexpectedly fell by 1.7 per cent month on month in October, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Figures showed that total production came in flat over the period, while the manufacturing industry grew by 0.1 per cent.
The total trade deficit widened by £300 million to £1.4 billion between September and October following a 1.6 per cent jump in goods imports.
ONS statistician Kate Davies said: "While manufacturing was relatively subdued overall in October despite record production of cars destined for export, the longer-term picture is one of strong growth.
"However, despite the stronger performance of UK manufacturers, imports grew more than exports in the three months to October once erratic items were excluded, slightly widening the underlying trade deficit.
"Construction output continued to fall back from its peak at the start of the year, with both new building and repair work faltering once again.
"However, construction orders for future work received a huge boost in the third quarter as many large HS2 contracts were awarded."
