In a bullish trading statement the firm said revenue for the first quarter to April 30 was 22% ahead of last year at £124.1m.

Forterra said: “Trading saw continued positive momentum with the group benefitting from an improving demand environment, primarily driven by house building.

“With demand recovering and inventories reducing we are actively managing production capacity to ensure we continue to address customer demand.

“We have recently taken steps to increase our production of concrete floor beams, and we are preparing to increase our brick production at Desford and expect to utilise both kilns simultaneously for the first time from Q4 2025. Whilst full output is not yet required, this marks an important milestone in the ramp-up of this facility.

“We have made good progress with the reinstatement of our Wilnecote brick factory following an investment of around £30m, with the kiln expected to be lit imminently. We expect to begin regaining our position in the attractive commercial and specification market as the year progresses.

“Similarly, the commissioning of our innovative brick slip production facility at our Accrington factory continues to progress in line with our expectations as we develop the product range ahead of a market launch later this year.”

Forterra added: “We continue to implement the necessary selling price increases to offset cost inflation, which remains at normalised levels in line with our expectations.”