A COUNCILLOR has marked the start of a residential estate which is being built on the site of a former police station.

Ripon Councillor Mike Chambers visited the development of the Dawson Grange retirement complex in the town, where he took part in a brick laying ceremony.

The complex has been named after Britain's first policewoman, Margaret Dawson, and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Cllr Chambers said: “It was a pleasure to visit the site of McCarthy and Stone’s newest development, Dawson Grange, and to mark the start of construction there.

"The plans for the build look fantastic and it’s hugely exciting that construction is now under way – I’m sure future homeowners will be very happy with the development and I look forward to seeing it when it’s complete.”

Once constructed, Dawson Grange is expected to have one and two-bedroom apartments exclusively for those aged 60 and above. It's also expected to feature a communal garden.

Marketing director at McCarthy and Stone North East, Liz Green, said: “We are thrilled that Councillor Mike Chambers was able to take the time to visit Dawson Grange, and take a look at the plans for the Retirement Living apartments that will be available later this year."