A boom in construction is set to create over 200,000 new jobs by 2019, according to a new report.

More than 40,000 new jobs will be needed every year, 8,000 more than previously predicted, said the Construction Industry Training Board.

Private housing is set to increase by 4.6% over the next few years, while employment is expected to be particularly strong in Wales and the north of England, a study found.

Over 5,300 construction jobs will be created in Wales alone over the next five years, it was predicted.

Steve Radley, the CITB's director of policy, said: "Our forecast shows that construction is experiencing a major comeback, with a sustained period of growth set to make a positive impact on the wider economy. Leisure, infrastructure and housing are all driving growth, but this brings with it new challenges in meeting skills demand.

"Employers will need to pull every lever available to them to meet the skills challenge they face but Government can play a vital role in giving them the confidence to invest in training for the long-term.

"To help it plan ahead, industry needs a clear commitment from all political parties in the run up to the general election that infrastructure projects will be delivered on time and to plan in the next parliament.

"Government can also help employers to develop the next generation of workers by sending out a clear signal that it will make it as simple as possible for companies of all sizes to invest in apprenticeships."

Minister for Employment, Esther McVey said: "Up and down the country the army of workers who are building Britain in the construction and manufacturing sectors have seen a jobs boost this year.

?"My message for the bricklayers and builders - and all the trades in between - is that you work hard every day and so are we to create more jobs.

"As part of our long-term economic plan we're making sure even more hardworking people benefit from the growing economy and get the security of a regular wage."