The latest registration figures from NHBC show that the number of new homes registered across the country remains significantly up compared to corresponding 2012 statistics.
In April alone 11,484 new homes were registered in the UK compared to 8,238 in April 2012 – an increase of 39%.
In line with the positive Q1 statistics, 2013 continues to show a marked improvement on the number of new homes registered with NHBC, with year to date figures 26% higher for the period January to April compared to the same period last year (43,223 in 2013 compared to 34,236 in 2012).
As the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK, NHBC’s monthly registration statistics help to provide new and accurate data on the country’s new homes market.
Commenting on the latest statistics, NHBC Commercial Director Richard Tamayo said: “April’s registration figures, combined with early indications of increased activity in May, build upon the solid volume growth seen in Q1 2013.
“Similar to previous registration figures this year, the upturn can be attributed in part to the Government’s £2.2bn Affordable Homes Programme which according to Housing Minister Mark Prisk is on track to deliver the target of 170,000 new homes by 2015.
“We still need to remember, however, in the context of overall new home volumes, that the figures remain significantly below registration levels prior to the economic downturn and the levels the UK urgently requires to meet the needs of its demographic.”
The CBI has commented on the survey's revelation that nearly four-in-five employers say the lack of affordable housing is stalling economic growth. It says that over 70% of firms agree that building more homes would stimulate the local economy and bring in more business and customers.
Lucy Thornycroft, CBI Head of Housing Policy, said: “We are still falling woefully short of building the homes we need. Housing stimulates quick economic returns - it has short construction lead-in times and immediate impact in creating jobs and boosting local economies.
“Ministers have taken some bold steps in helping people get a mortgage to meet pent-up demand. We now need to see real urgency to boost housing supply and affordable housing to stabilise the market in the longer-term.”
