<p>Private sector housing starts in England reached 23,580 in the first quarter of the year, 16% up on the same time last year and 24% up on the previous quarter, according to government figures released today. Total starts hit 29,140, 15% up year on year. </p><p> </p> <p></p> <p>Starts in the quarter, however, remain 20,000 fewer than the first quarter of 2007. </p><p> </p> <p></p> <p>English private sector completions reached 22,050 in the quarter, up from 20,430 last year and 23% higher than the previous quarter with completion overall also up 12% year on year. </p><p> </p> <p></p> <p>"Today's figures are welcome," said housing minister Grant Shapps, "but they are only the start of the story. I am determined that there should be no slowing down on the road to recovery. The construction industry that builds the homes this country needs can expect more help. We will work closely with housebuilders and listen to their suggestions about how we can improve." </p><p> </p> <p></p>