A NEW housing development in Chester-le-Street has been given the green light – paving the way for one of the first estates in County Durham to be 100 per cent affordable.

Durham County Council handed approval to a scheme from developer Karbon Homes last week, which will now see 21 new properties built on Bullion Lane in the town that will be attached to an affordability scheme.

The site, which will be developed now permission is granted, will consist of 12 one-bed apartments for over 55s, available for affordable rent, and 9 two and three-bed family homes, available to let on a Rent to Buy basis.

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Lea Smith, development manager at Karbon Homes, welcomed the planning decision, and has now set the companies’ sights on building the £2.8m development.

He said: “The development has been designed with the needs of the local community in mind. The new homes consist of a combination of property types, in varying sizes, providing options for residents at differing stages.”

During the planning application stage of proceedings, Karbon’s decision to redevelop the Bullion Maintenance depot site was welcomed by planners, due to the number of affordable homes it will provide.

The Northern Echo: The £2.8m scheme will now be built in the County Durham town after gaining council approval. Picture: KARBON HOMES.The £2.8m scheme will now be built in the County Durham town after gaining council approval. Picture: KARBON HOMES.

The mix of new homes proposed was determined through analysis of local housing demand. Karbon will receive funding for the project from Homes England as part of its strategic partnership. 

Mr Smith added: “We hope local residents will welcome access to good quality, affordable housing in their local area.”

“All of the houses on the site will be available for Rent to Buy, allowing residents to pay 80 per cent of market rent while they save towards a deposit to buy the house. This is a fantastic way for first time buyers to get onto the property ladder.”

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