Cala to boost site starts as rivals pause build plans

Grant Prior 2 years ago
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Cala Group is planning to start work on more sites this year than last despite wobbles in the housing market.

Rivals inlcuding Persimmon and Barratt have recently revealed plans to pause work on sites and slow down new building rates.

But Cala said it plans to start work on 29 new sites or work phases this year compared to 20 in 2022.

The news comes as Cala revealed a strong set of preliminary results for last year with turnover up to £1.36bn from £1.24bn last time as pre-tax profits hit £169m from £132.7m.

The numbers were boosted by a strong first nine months of 2022 before the market turned after the disastrous mini-budget of Liz Truss’s short reign as Prime Minister.

Kevin Whitaker, CEO at Cala Group, said: “Cala has delivered an excellent performance across 2022, achieving significant increases in revenue and pre-tax profit. This was attained through an increase in new home completions, strong sales price growth and the mix of homes sold during the year.

“We benefited from excellent market conditions in the first nine months of the year. During the final quarter of 2022, the impact of the UK Government’s mini budget on the financial markets directly influenced buyer confidence.

“This has naturally affected sales rates in recent months and has impacted the strength of our forward sales position.

“2023 will be challenging for everyone, due to the increased financial pressures associated with higher living costs and mortgage repayments.

“Cala is well-placed to navigate the changing market conditions with the backing of our owners, Legal & General, alongside the talent, commitment and quality of our teams.

“The fundamental shortage in the supply of new homes continues to support new build delivery. In a more selective market, the quality of design and construction of Cala’s homes, alongside industry-leading customer service, continue to attract home buyers.

“Now more than ever, against the backdrop of increased fuel costs and reduced availability of secondhand homes, new homes offer a great alternative. Excellent energy and thermal efficiency help minimise energy use, while facilitators like part exchange support customers through their move.”

 

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