The number of homes being built continues to rise following a range of
measures put in place by the government to support the industry during the
pandemic, the latest housebuilding figures show.
There were 49,470 completed homes in the first quarter of 2021 – the highest
figure in over 20 years and a 4% increase compared to the last 3 months of
2020. During the same period 46,010 homes were started, the highest number in
nearly 15 years and a 7% increase on the previous quarter.
The figures also show an increase in housebuilding starts in London with
14,530 in the year to March 2021, an increase of 18% compared to the previous
12 months.
In addition, the figures highlight that in 2020-21 houses made up 81% of all
new build dwellings – the highest proportion since 2000-01.
The figures further reflect the housing and construction industry’s
resilience following the measures the government has taken to keep building
sites open during the pandemic.
Housing Secretary Rt Hon 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.”
