Housebuilding industry on the increase

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by Kay Murchie

An improvement is being seen in the housebuilding industry. Statistics released from the NHBC (National House-Building Council) show that there was a 5% increase in the number of applications for new home starts during March to May 2007, compared to the same period 12 months before.

In addition, the NHBC have noted that there were 54,935 applications to commence new homes during the period, with the bulk (44,297) being made by the private sector.

Although this figure signifies a 1% drop year-on-year, applications for Housing Association homes increased by 42% in the same period.

The figures from the NHBC illustrate that encouraging steps are being taken to deliver affordable housing within the UK. The Government shared and shared ownership schemes are proving worthwhile in helping first-time buyers and public sector workers onto the property ladder.