The builder started the year operating from 80 active sales outlets and aims to grow this to 85 as it invests in consented land.

In an end of year trading statement, Bovis Homes said it expects to deliver higher volumes, at an increased average sales price with an improved profit margin, leading to a significant increase in profits in 2012.

David Ritchie, chief executive of Bovis Homes, said: “We are delighted with the improved returns delivered in 2011.

“The group is well placed for 2012 with increasing active sales outlets and stronger profit margins. ”

Based on current market conditions continuing, the group can deliver significantly increased profit and, coupled with improving efficiency of capital employed, a stronger return on capital employed in 2012 and beyond.”

Bovis Homes raised completion 8% in 2011 to 2,045 homes, of which 1,624 were private (2010: 1,592 including the 215 home joint venture deal) and 421 were social (2010: 309).

The underlying increase in private legal completions was 18%.  The increase in social housing was driven by the significant number of new site openings in 2011.

Average private sales price increased by 4.5% to £180,100, due building family homes in the south of England.