Construction group predicts further growth for 2007 after posting full-year results.

Kier Group has predicted further growth for 2007 after recording a 23% rise in profits for the last financial year.

In its full year results for the year ended 30 June 2006, Kier recorded pre-tax profits of 拢59.1m compared with 拢47.8m the previous year. Turnover rose 13% to 拢1.8 bn over the same period, boosted by strong performances across the construction, support services and residential divisions.

The construction order books at 30 June were the highest in the group鈥檚 history.

Chief executive John Dodds said: 鈥淎gainst this backdrop, the prospects for the Group are excellent and I am confident that we will continue to deliver further growth in 2007 and thereafter.鈥