Barratt Developments has revealed market conditions are 'healthy and strong' in its trading update today, 12 January.

The company's Profit before tax for the period is expected to be around £315 million, 7% higher than the same period last year (£295m).

In addition, completions outside London are at the highest level for nine years. However, with a number of city projects coming to an end, total completions declined to 7,180 (2015: 7,625).

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Total forward sales (including JVs) are up 15.8% , while wholly owned forward sales have risen by 35.2% to £2,167.5m (2015: £1,603.0m).

David Thomas, Chief Executive, said it had been another good half year for the Group.

"Consumer demand is strong benefiting from good mortgage availability and ongoing government support," he said.

"Our healthy forward order book and this strong demand leaves us on track to deliver on our volume guidance for the full year."

(LM)