This thoroughly readable overview of the nature and history of the construction industry offers a clear understanding of how this vast and complex industry operates. Exploring its main features - the markets, the principal players, and ways of working - it provides a strong basis for further study.

Construction UK: introduction to the industry takes a fresh approach to today's key issues - sustainability, safety, efficiency, employment practices and procurement. It explains why things are the way they are and investigates the powerful trends for change.

This new edition is updated with:

* the latest DTI statistics, including new information on causes accidents

* an examination of the effectiveness of initiatives post-Egan

* a new section on the influence of European initiatives

* expanded coverage of sustainability and the environmental drivers affecting construction - as well as the industry's response

* an enlarged section on labour resources and the skills gap

* a new look at the role of IT and how it is changing the design, construction and operation of buildings

* new case studies on Holyrood and on Wembley Stadium.

Students and all those interested in the built environment - architecture, engineering, surveying, construction - will find this a highly accessible and stimulating approach.