PERSIMMON has said sales are still robust in spite of the coronavirus disruption.

The housebuilder, which is in the process of re-opening sites, said customer inquiries have remained at “good levels” throughout the lockdown.

However, its forward sales have taken a hit compared to last year, the company said.

Persimmon said the average selling price for a new home in its order book was around £244,500, up from £237,850 in 2019.

READ MORE: Housebuilder Persimmon to begin reopening sites 

The company said its forward sales position “remains robust” at £2.4 billion. However, that it is down from £2.7bn the year before.

Dave Jenkinson, Persimmon chief executive, said: “The Government has been clear that it wants the UK’s housebuilders to get back to building and this week we have started the phased process of getting back to work safely on site in order to deliver the new homes the country needs.”

The phased reopening is only starting south of the Border for now.

He also said the firm is “responding to the crisis from a position of strength, to the benefit of all its stakeholders; our long-term strategy and business model recognises the cyclical nature of the housing market, minimises financial risk through the cycle, and provides the flexibility needed to manage effectively through this difficult period”.

Shares closed up 2.8% at 2,272p.