New figures have revealed more than 153,000 homes have been built in the year to June.

The latest housebuilding data states completion rates are up 11% compared to last year, while 164,960 new homes were started during the same period, an increase of 13% compared to 2016.

Overall, the figures demonstrate strong growth in housebuilding right across the country, with Gloucestershire, South Derbyshire and South Norfolk amongst the strongest areas in delivering high levels of starts.

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On a quarterly basis (from April to June), new build dwelling starts in England were estimated at 41,180 (seasonally adjusted) in the latest quarter, a 3% decrease compared to the previous three months and 10% increase on a year earlier.

Completions were estimated at 40,310 (seasonally adjusted), 2% higher than the previous quarter and 15% higher than a year ago.

Housing and Planning Minister Alok Sharma said new housing starts have now reached record levels since 2009.

"Building more homes is an absolute priority for this government," he said.

"It's vital we maintain this momentum to deliver more quality homes in the places that people want to live. Our housing white paper set out an ambitious package of long-term reforms to do just that."

(LM)