Construction on almost 50,000 new homes was completed in the first quarter of 2021 despite the pandemic, the latest government housebuilding figures have revealed.
There were 49,470 completed homes in the first quarter of 2021, an increase of 4% on the previous period, the highest number of in over 20 years. Work also started on a further 46,010 properties across England, up 7% on the previous quarter and the most starts in 15 years.
Of the total newly completed properties, houses made up 81% of new builds: the highest proportion since 2000.
The figures further reflect the housing and construction industry’s resilience and the effects of the measures the government has taken to keep building sites open during the pandemic.
Housing Secretary, Robert Jenrick MP said:
It is encouraging to see a continued rise in the number of new homes being built. The house building sector has shown extraordinary resilience and the government has continued to demonstrate its support for the industry throughout the pandemic.
By enabling construction sites to remain open and operate safely, builders have been able deliver the homes this country needs as we build back better from the pandemic.
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