PLANS for more than 7,000 new homes to reverse Middlesbrough's long-term population decline have been approved by the Government.

The endorsement of Middlesbrough Housing Local Plan - its largest housebuilding programme for 40 years - is the latest stage in a major review of the town's housing needs, to start boosting its population.

The local plan was submitted to the Secretary of State and was formally examined by the planning inspector. It will be rubber-stamped at a full meeting of MIddlesbrough Council next Wednesday (Nov 27).

It is the first new-style Local Plan to be adopted in the North East, making provision for nearly 7,000 homes to be built in the town by 2029 to boost the falling population.

A number of new and existing sites are identified for new homes, including Brookfield, Ladgate Lane, Hemlington Grange, Gresham, Stainton, Coulby Newham and Nunthorpe.

When complete, the council estimates the new homes could potentially generate £10 million a year in Council Tax, and around £65 million in New Homes Bonus.

Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “This plan represents the most ambitious building programme Middlesbrough has seen for over four decades, so I am delighted it has been backed by the Planning Inspector.

“It will help to stem the long-term decline in the town’s population and to control and shape the developments the town undoubtedly needs."