Record number of completions for construction group under affordable homes programme

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Housing and also in Development

A construction group's latest half yearly figures have revealed a record number of completions under the affordable homes programme.

In the six months to December 31 last year, Galliford Try completed 1,364 units, up from 1,352 during the same period in 2011, and of which 1,046 were private and 318 affordable homes.

The firm's report said: “We are achieving good revenues under the Government’s affordable housing programme reflecting our market position, strength of client relationships in the sector and active management of our £17m direct funding award.

“We have also been appointed as preferred bidder on further public land releases with the Homes and Communities Agency’s delivery partner panel totalling 718 units.”

The housebuilder noted mortgage availability is still an issue in the sector but that new initiatives and products are improving the position.

Greg Fitzgerald, chief executive, said: “In a stable market we are seeing continued momentum in house building particularly in the geographic regions where we operate.

“Underlying growth is strong given that last year’s results included a contribution of £6.9 million from one significant land sale.

“In line with our stated strategy and progress to date we will continue our disciplined focus on margin enhancement in house building.”