Self build 'withstands housing downturn'

While the economic climate shows no sign of an immediate improvement, one manufacturing firm has attributed the robustness of the self-build housing market as part of the reason for its predictions of a successful year.

Alne-based brickmaker York Handmade Brick has forecast a successful year, with the company experiencing a 17 per cent rise in turnover on this time last year to £1.9 million, the Press reported.

It noted the self build housing market has withstood the downturn experienced in the rest of the housing market, with this sector making up 35 per cent of the company's business.

David Armitage, chairman of the company, said: "The higher turnover is predominantly down to the increased sales resulting from our recent investment in a special products building."

He added these investments have been successful, with the company now producing more flowerpots, extruded bricks and terracotta floor tiles than before.

Last month, a report from the Office of Fair Trading argued it is vital to maintain a vibrant self build sector in the housing industry.