Housebuilder Bellway, which is involved in a bid to redevelop Oxford United's old ground, has broken through the £100m profit barrier.

The group reported its average house selling prices had risen by 12 per cent to £119,000 in the year to July 31. Pre-tax profits soared by 14 per cent to £101.5m.

Chairman Howard Dawe said there was no reason to believe the pattern of growth would not continue.

A Government planning inspector is currently examining a plan to develop the Manor Ground in Headington, submitted jointly by Bellway, Oxford United, and Nuffield Hospital, acting for the Acland Hospital.