According to recent NHBC statistics, July saw a dip in registrations (from 14,565 in June to 11,310 in July); however nearly 6,000 more new homes were registered with NHBC in May - July 2011, compared with the same period last year (from 30,771 to 36,716).

Imtiaz Farookhi, chief executive of NHBC, said: "We have seen growth in registration numbers; however, given the reduction in central Government funding for social housing, we will need to see an upturn in private demand if the increase in volumes is to continue over the next few years.

"In order for the UK to build the higher volumes identified by consecutive governments as required to meet population and household formation, difficult issues such as greater mortgage availablility and consumer confidence during current economic volatility will need to be addressed."

NHBC statistics for the rolling quarter May - July 2011 also show that:

- Private sector registrations were up 16% (to 23,996) when compared with the same period a year ago (20,679)
- Public sector registrations increased by 26%, from 10,092 to 12,720