BUILDING materials group CRH has not made any approach to buy the Redland bricks division, a deal that could involve a purchaser in spending up to £200 million, writes Brendan McGrath.

CRH would make no comment yesterday on market speculation that it is one of four companies running the rule over the Redland bricks division, but sources close to the company said it had made no approach to Redfand.

It is understood that CRH intends to concentrate on its Keyline merchanting business in Britain, rather than becoming involved in the acquisition of capital intensive industries such as brick manufacture.

Earlier this year CRH expanded - the Keyline business - through the acquisition of a further 23 outlets including 14 Builders Mate branches from Wickes.