DEMOLITION work to make way for a £3.5 million housing scheme in north Durham has been resumed.

The development of 37 homes at Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, is being carried out by Cestria Community Housing.

It includes 21 two-bedroom bungalows and 16 two-bedroom semi-detached homes for rent.

Plans were approved by Durham County Council’s planning committee last January and work to demolish the existing 36 empty bungalows on The Garth site began in March last year.

Two weeks into the demolition, the contractor originally appointed to build the scheme was placed into administration and work was put on hold until a new contractor was appointed.

Work has restarted on site this week with staff from Keepmoat.

Councillor Jim Cordon, who represents the Pelton Ward on Durham County Council, said: “We have been waiting for this development to happen for a long time and I am just pleased that we are finally there.

“This development will not only meet the needs of local people across the district but also our local community here in Pelton.”

The homes will include energy efficient features such as improved insulation in walls, windows and the roof, recycling waste management measures and energy efficient heating systems.

The scheme is expected to be completed next spring.