A CROSS Hills-based housebuilder has reported another hugely successful year – and more jobs are being created.

Family-owned Skipton Properties increased its turnover by 30 per cent to £28.5 million in 2018-19 – up by £6.2m compared to the previous year.

The company’s growth has been fuelled by soaring house sales – the number of homes sold in the past year was up by a quarter on 2017-18.

During the financial year – which ran from June, 2018, to July this year – the firm made several internal changes, including the appointment of a new managing director.

Sarah Barraclough succeeded her father Brian Verity in the post after working in various roles within the company for 16 years.

She said she was delighted with the latest results.

“The last year has been hugely successful for Skipton Properties,” she added.

“We’ve surpassed all our internal targets, proving that the need for a steady supply of high-quality new homes is stronger than ever.

“Despite current political uncertainty and market jitters, our homes have continued to sell, which is testament to the whole team.

“As a company we work tirelessly to design and build the highest quality homes and to provide top-class customer service throughout the whole sales process.”

She said the 87-employee firm – which was founded in 1986 and is based at Riparian Way – would continue to build on its success in the coming year, with all its current construction sites on schedule and a number of new schemes in the pipeline.

Planned developments include a £10 million homes scheme on the former Ebor Mill plot at Haworth.

The site has been derelict since 2010, when fire ravaged the 140-year-old mill.

New recruits are also being taken on by the business.

Up to 18 months’ work is available for bricklayers at locations including Settle and Coniston Cold.

A senior administrator is being sought for the Cross Hills head office.

Plus a sales advisor is being hired.

Help is also being given to community causes. Every month, £1,000 is being donated to worthy projects in areas where Skipton Properties is building or has planned developments. The latest grant was to the Ribble Rivers Trust. For more details, visit skiptonproperties.com.