RECORD BUILDING PERMIT NUMBERS FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST

Saskatchewan's construction industry continues to benefit from a strong and vibrant economy according to the August building permit figures, hitting an all-time record for the month of August.

"Everyday Saskatchewan builders are putting up new homes as new families are moving in to our neighbourhoods and rising building permits are yet another sign that Saskatchewan is moving forward," Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison said.

Building permits were up by 26.1 per cent in August 2011 when compared to August 2010 (seasonally adjusted), the third highest percentage increase in Canada, and well ahead of the 3.9 per cent rise on a national basis. Residential permits were up by 75.5 per cent over the same period.

"The future is bright for Saskatchewan with new potash mines planned, ongoing energy sector exploration, and new small businesses starting up in communities across Saskatchewan," Harrison said. "With all the opportunity in our province today we will continue to see many new homes going up in our neighbourhoods."

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For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-798-0503
Email: deb.young@enterprisesask.ca