Bovis Homes has set itself stiffer green targets in the wake of an environmental review last year. The housebuilder has introduced policies, procedures and systems to cut energy consumption and minimise waste.

The move was described in the company results for the year ending 31 December 1999, when the group reported a 23% rise in pre-tax profit to £55.4m. Turnover increased 18.6% to £278m, helped by increased completions and an upswing in selling prices.

The firm built 2429 units last year, compared with 2303 in 1998. The average selling price rose 13% to £109 400 from £96 800. Operating margins in the South-east were 23%, compared with 15% in the South-west and 20% in the Central region.

Bovis Homes reduced its landbank in both the South-east and the South-west during the year but increased it in the Central region — which also covers the north of England – by 52% to 4419 plots.

Chief executive of Bovis Homes Group, Malcolm Harris, said: "Current trading conditions are good, with total reservations over 10% above those at this time last year. Operating margins are improving."