Like many house builders Bovis was cautious about driving housing starts last year but said it planned to open more sites this year.

The south east house builder said prospects for the year ahead were good with reservations for 2012 up 41%.

The average number of active sales outlets grew to 73 from 66 in the prior year and the group finished 2011 with 80 active sites.

This contributed to the delivery of 2,045 legal completions during 2011, 8% ahead of the previous year.

Average sales prices rose 5% of £180,100 as the builder benefitted from its strong presence in the south east. The improvements helped to lift operating margins from 7.2% to 10%.

David Ritchie, the chief executive of Bovis Homes said: “The substantial land investment in recent years will deliver a strong increase in active sales outlets in 2012.

“Based on a continuation of current market conditions, this will further enhance volumes, sales prices and profit margins.”