UK house builder Persimmon Homes could double its GBP1.5 million (USD2.8 million) investment in JCB telescopic handlers, with the planned purchase of more machines by the end of the year.

The firm, which has more than 400 sites throughout the UK, has taken delivery of new JCB 533-105s, 535-95s, 535-125s, 535-140s, 540-140s and 535-170s, with lift heights ranging from 9.5-17 metres.

The machines will be carrying out materials handling duties on Persimmon and Charles Church developments throughout the country.

Persimmon Homes (South Midlands) managing director Nigel Greenaway said JCB "did a good deal" on their new machines.

"While there may be other manufacturers that come reasonably close, JCBs are the superior machine when it comes to balancing performance reliability against cost and depreciation," he said.

"Back up and availability of spares and service is also vital and we get good service from (dealer) Watling JCB."