HOUSEBUILDER Barratt, which has a main office at Poppleton in York, today announced record results for the 13th consecutive year.

David Pretty, group chief executive, said: "We have again completed more new homes in total, and more on regenerated brownfield sites, than any other housebuilder. Previous interest rate rises have restored a welcome stability to the market, making it more sustainable going forward.

"We are seeing encouraging demand on our sites right across the country. The fundamentals of the housing market remain sound, with historically low interest rates, good employment levels and restricted supply due to planning delays.

"Furthermore, stable prices, or modest price rises in the year ahead should continue to increase buyer confidence and improve affordability. This will benefit house buyers and house builders alike."

During the six months to December 31, Barratt increased sales to 6,866 new homes in the UK, and pre-tax profits rose by 20 per cent to a record £171.1 million with the average selling price of a new Barratt home rising to £165,600.

Mr Pretty said: "Our forward sales now stand at a record £1 billion, which together with our full geographic spread and diverse product range, gives us confidence for the year ahead."

Barratt are currently building on 24 developments in the region.

Updated: 11:45 Tuesday, March 29, 2005