Bovis to build fewer homes in 2017

Bovis Homes has said it will build fewer homes this year after announcing a 3% fall in pretax profits to £154.7m for 2016. Admitting it had been a “difficult year”, the housebuilder said problems included weaknesses in its production process and a high level of customer service issues, leading to a one-off £7m customer care provision. The group achieved 3,977 completions in 2016, up from 3,934 in 2015. However, it expects completion volumes in 2017 to fall by between 10% and 15% year on year, before a return to “normal industry production levels”. Interim chief executive Earl Sibley said: “We have a clear set of operational priorities for 2017 and are fully committed to improving our levels of customer service and delivering high-quality homes this year and in the future. “The fundamentals of the business remain strong with a robust financial position and high-quality land bank. With our focus on higher levels of customer service, improved build efficiency, and a refreshed culture, we are confident we will generate enhanced shareholder returns over the medium term.” • To send feedback, e-mail louisa.clarence-smith@estatesgazette.com or tweet @LouisaClarence or @estatesgazette