Increasing numbers of new homes have been built but fewer developments have been started for the second successive quarter, Government data shows.

Figures up to June 30 estimate there were 45,190 completions in the three months to the end of June, up 11% on a year ago.

There were 173,660 completions in the year to June, up 8% annually, the highest number for 11 years.

However, the number of new-build starts fell 8% in the three months to June at 37,220, but over the 12 months to June are down just 1% annually to 160,640.

Commenting on the data, Clive Docwra, managing director of construction consulting and design agency McBains, said: “The figures show the number of new homes being started or completed are still nowhere near the number required to meet the Government’s target of building 300,000 homes a year by the mid 2020s.

“Brexit uncertainty continues to bite, with many house building projects on hold until the picture on the UK withdrawal from the EU becomes clearer, while the weak pound means the high cost of imported materials is holding back construction.”