Applications to build new homes soared 64% in the final quarter of 2009 compared to a year ago, the latest NBC statistics reveal.
NHBC received 26,078 applications to start new homes, compared to 15,879 a year before.
NHBC chief executive Imtiaz Farookhi said the figures supported the prospect of “significant recovery”.
Registrations have now shown strong levels of recovery for the third consecutive month, with 7,149 new homes registered with NHBC for December, up 68% on the same time last year (4,259). In November the figure was up 71% year-on-year.
All regions reported higher levels of housing starts, with the north-east and Merseyside showing the strongest growth of 269% and 127% respectively.
Private sector applications totalled 18,393, a 113% increase, while public sector starts were only 6% higher.
“However, 2009 has been extremely challenging, with build levels extremely low,” added Mr Farookhi.
“Now, the nation’s housebuilders need support from the government as they see their way out of this downturn and try and meet the need for new homes. 2010 will be a watershed year in assessing whether housebuilding targets can be met, both in terms of the quantity and quality of new homes.”
