CONSTRUCTION firm Miller has stepped up its house building programme after a surge in demand across the North West.

The Scottish-based group reported sales of 225% over target for its 16 sites across the region, including its Bridgewater Park development in Netherley. Regional director Steve McElroy said: “By the close of business at the half year we anticipate sales of 265 new homes – that is 90% of the whole year’s sales targets for the North West.

“These are exceptional results in any market, but in the height of a credit crunch and with some of the toughest trading conditions for decades, they are phenomenal.”

He said he believes the industry is now on the right track and has learnt some tough, but important, lessons in the past year, mainly that affordability and helping people secure a mortgage offer have been essential ingredients in the recovery.

He added: “The challenge is to build as many homes as are required.ŠWe have seen strong demand in the downturn but now as the market is recovering we are planning for growth.”