A study into the socio-economic footprint of Barratt Developments has found that the housebuilder’s Scottish operations have contributed more than £250 million to the economy during the past year.

A report carried out by planning consultancy Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners (NLP) revealed that some 550 subcontractor companies and 650 supplier businesses were supported by the firm.

The building giant’s Socio-economic footprint report also reveals that 4,500 jobs have been supported though Barratt, sister brand David Wilson Homes, and its contractors and suppliers. North of the Border, the group built 1,390 homes during the year.

The analysis, which builds upon previously prepared data for Barratt in 2013 and 2014, looked at a range of economic, social and environmental impacts generated by the firm’s activities, to feed into the Group’s Sustainability Report 2015.

According to the study, the firm planted or retained 29,400 trees or shrubs on its developments and generated £39.4m in tax to support public services.

Regional boss Douglas Mcleod said: “As one of Scotland’s leading housebuilders, we are well aware of our responsibility to engage with the communities in which we operate, to act as stewards of the environment, and to support the local economy.”

Click here to read the full report.