Galliford Try has said its business has been boosted following its acquisition of Miller Construction.

The news was announced as the housebuilding and construction firm published its Interim Management Statement for the period 1 July 2014 to 6 November 2014.

Key points of the statement include the company confirming the sales rate had improved during the autumn period, but not to the same level as last year. However, it said the current rate provided "a good in hand position of sales, reserved, contracted or completed" of £509m. In 2013, this was £560m. It added that £433m (52%) is for the current financial year to 30 June 2015, compared to £469m (60%) last year.

With regards to its housebuilding arm, it said it had a record landbank of 14,050 units achieved ahead of plan, with land opportunities remaining "very good across all regions", with 94% of land secured for the financial year to 30 June 2016.

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Elsewhere, Galliford Try's order book increased to £3.1bn following its acquisition of Miller Construction, while the contractor said it had secured 94% of its projected revenue for the year to 30 June 2015, as well as 56% of revenue for the following year.

It added, however, that restructuring costs following the acquisition are set to be lower than the £4m originally forecast.

Greg Fitzgerald, Executive Chairman, Galliford Try, said: "Steadily improving confidence in the economy supports the planned disciplined growth in both our Housebuilding and Construction divisions.

"Housing market growth rates have steadied to a more sustainable level and, supported by improved mortgage availability, Linden Homes is on target to meet our expectations. Our Partnerships business continues to enjoy exceptional growth opportunities in the affordable market.

"Construction, bolstered by the acquisition of Miller Construction in July, is benefiting from an improving market and the stronger presence created by the combination."

He added: "I am delighted both with the efficient integration process and by the strong contribution already evident from the incoming team. The Group is encouraged by the prospects of delivering further growth in line with our strategy."

(JP/MH)