<p>Countryside Properties and premium housebuilder Millgate Developments have merged following the acquisition of Millgate by Oaktree Capital Management, Countryside's parent company.</p> <p>Millgate's premium product range will be offered on new and existing Countryside sites under the Millgate brand. The merger will expand the geographic reach and product offering of both groups and fits with Countryside's growth strategy.</p> <p>Millgate md David Simpson will join the Countryside board.</p> <p>Ian Sutcliffe, executive chairman of Countryside, said: "The compatibility of product, geography and culture of the two companies make this an outstanding strategic fit and a great opportunity to broaden our offering."</p>