Newcastle building approvals below government benchmarks, says industry body

Tradies in the Hunter may need to do their utmost to stand out from competitors as housing approvals in the region have continued to fall over the past year, according to one building industry body.

While the situation does not appear to be dire by any means, the Master Builders Association says figures for new developments remain well below benchmarks set by the state government.

According to association regional manager Len Blakeney, construction of apartments has hit a flat period and the residential market in general does not appear to be on the verge of improving.

"There's been no great pick-up there and especially with the fact that not a lot of apartment and high dwellings and buildings are being built," Blakeney told ABC Radio Newcastle today (February 20).

"We definitely need an improvement in infrastructure with better planning and new land releases," he added.

A lack of opportunities has the potential to make business difficult for the region's tradies, but those with strong reputations and access to the right equipment will be hoping that when a job comes along they are in line to win the contract.