The company said the “difficult decision” had “not been made lightly” and the move is designed to ensure the group “has the right foundations for the future.”

Higgins added that “some structural changes will be required” but said job losses would be “minimal”.

The move will see Higgins Homes and Higgins Construction  combined and rebranded as Higgins Partnerships.

Higgins Group chairman Richard Higgins said: “Over the past few years we have seen a huge amount of change in the way that housing is delivered in this country. The majority of housing schemes include a blend of private and affordable tenures as well as commercial aspects and community facilities, often with multiple stakeholders involved.

“In response to these opportunities, the decision has been made to combine the production elements of Higgins Homes and Higgins Construction. Moving forward, the Group will operate with a single delivery vehicle that will be rebranded as Higgins Partnerships.

“It is important to stress however that each company will be retained.

“Higgins Homes is a successful, award winning developer and it will continue to purchase land and seek new and exciting development opportunities.

“Similarly, Higgins Partnerships (previously known as Higgins Construction) will continue to work with all of the major Registered Providers, Local Authorities and Build to Rent operators to deliver projects through partnership.

“Unfortunately, due to this integration some structural changes will be required; these difficult decisions have not been made lightly but, as we approach our 60th Anniversary, we must ensure the Group has the right foundations for the future.”