Contractor says strong 2006 results are in line with market forecasts

Balfour Beatty’s order book grew by 20% to £9bn during 2006.

The contractor said it anticipated strong figures as a result of its performance in principle markets such as healthcare, education, road and rail transport, utility systems, privately financed projects and social housing.

In a statement to the stock exchange the contractor predicted that its results for the year ended 31 December 2006 would be in line with expectations.

Acquisitions made by the group in the US building, UK retail and UK civil engineering sectors are also expected to boost the group’s future earnings potential.

Preliminary results will be announced on March 7.