WORK has started on a new 116-home development on a former school site.

Construction is now underway on the £16 million Heathway development in the Parkside area of Seaham which is being built by the Durham Villages Regeneration Company, a joint venture between Durham County Council and Keepmoat Homes.

The development features 108 properties for sale, including three on sale at 30 per cent less than market value, and another eight for affordable rent.

Company chairman Cllr Carl Marshall said: “This is the partnership’s first development in Seaham and it demonstrates our commitment to delivering a range of housing schemes with a focus on regenerating local communities.

“As well as 116 new homes it will provide further investment and jobs throughout the construction period.”

The Heathway initiative is on a former school site owned by Durham County Council and a small parcel of land previously owned by County Durham Housing Group.

The housing group will take on the management of the eight homes for rent and plans a further 48 affordable homes on an adjoining site that will provide a mix of both two and three bed bungalows and three bed family homes

Chief Executive, Bill Fullen, said: “It’s really pleasing to have shovels in the ground and bricks being laid on this scheme.

“In early 2018 we’ll also be starting work on our adjoining site to deliver further affordable homes.

“We know that affordable homes in Seaham will be in high demand and can’t wait to see the first families moving in.”