FAMILIES are creating "forever homes" on a housing development built on a former car garage site.

In 2020 housing association Livin began building 71 rental homes at the old Turners garage site on Salters Lane, Sedgefield.

Nearly 12 months on, 58 new tenants and their families – many of whom have local connections with the area – have settled in.

The development, delivered by Livin in partnership with Hardwick Homes Ltd, is expected to be complete by the end of March 2022.

Leanne Chapman was the first to move into the new homes with son Miles, six.

She said: “We feel so secure since moving here, it’s our forever home, our neighbours are lovely and Miles now has the best possible environment to grow up in.

"We moved in April and we couldn’t be happier with our new home. It has everything we need and more.

"We love the French doors that open onto the garden where Miles plays. It’s so warm and cosy. I’ve not even had to put the heating on yet.”

Alan Fletcher, chair of Livin’s board, from Sedgefield, said: “As a resident of Sedgefield I am delighted to see homes being built where they are clearly needed.

"I am immensely proud of this project and it’s wonderful to see the positive impact these lovely new homes are having on people’s lives.”

Information about Livin homes currently available to rent is online at www.livin.co.uk. To place a bid, applicants must be registered with www.durhamkeyoptions.co.uk.