THE £2m transformation of a housing estate near Stockton town centre has been completed.

Jomast Developments worked with Stockton Borough Council to deliver the project, which comprises 25 three bedroom dwellings at Tarring Street and Worthing Street, within the town's Parkfield ward.

The work was controversial as in 2013 residents objected to the plans, describing the rebuilt street as "like the Berlin Wall" and arguing it should be knocked down.

Stockton council's planning committee agreed and threw out the plan only for the authority's legal officers to insist the issue was re-examined because the application had not been rejected for sound planning reasons. Eventually, the committee narrowly approved the improvement plan.

The scheme encompasses the refurbishment of a terrace of former Victorian houses, adjoining new build houses in a similar, period style. The majority of the dwellings have been completed and are available for private letting.

Head of Housing at Stockton council, Julie Nixon, said: “The scheme is excellent and it’s a testament to the quality and detailing of these houses and Jomast’s work and has highlighted this, whilst significantly improving the character of the area.”

Founded in 1971, Jomast is a Stockton company and has real estate assets in excess of £250m.