A HOUSING firm says unrelenting demand supported by mortgage lenders’ rivalry is providing firmer ground to build a post-Brexit future.

Barratt Developments has proclaimed itself a “housebuilder of choice” after non-London sales leapt to a nine-year high.

The declaration comes a week after the company’s North-East division announced plans to create and support hundreds of jobs on new plots across the region.

According to its latest financial results, released yesterday, the Government’s Help to Buy programme has lured more first-time buyers to Barratt’s homes, with mortgage companies’ clamour for business delivering further backing.

Bosses revealed non-London sales stood at 6,813 in the six months to December 31, a rise from the 6,784 recorded a year ago, with reservations particularly strong in the North.

The company, founded in Newcastle by North-East tycoon Sir Lawrie Barratt, also confirmed its total average selling price was 3.9 per cent better off at £264,000, meaning pre-tax profits have lifted to around £315m.

David Thomas, chief executive, said its sales figure would have been stronger but for anticipated issues with a build programme and a previously announced pricing review on some London sites to ease stamp duty and EU referendum jitters.

He said: “This has been another good half-year and demand is strong, benefiting from good mortgage availability and ongoing Government support.

“Our continued commitment to quality design, build and excellence ensures we remain a housebuilder of choice.

“The fundamentals of the market are robust.”

Mr Thomas added Barratt’s total forward sales in the six-month period stood 15.8 per cent higher at £2.3bn, which equates to 10,520 plots.

He also confirmed the company, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, and has developments in Spennymoor and Consett, in County Durham, expects to approve the purchase of around 15,000 plots in its full financial year.

Earlier this month, Scott Martin, managing director of Barratt Developments’ North-East division, said it was keen to strengthen its local roots through new developments across the region.

The projects will include Five Acres, in Barnard Castle, County Durham, and The Drive at Mount Oswald, on the outskirts of Durham City.

He added: “The North-East is the home of Barratt, so it is great to be able to give (something) back.”

Bosses told The Northern Echo the schemes will deliver new jobs and provide employment for existing sub-contractors.

However, they were unable to give a precise figure on how many of the 260 posts will be new jobs.