Work has started on the development of a £1.12 million project which will deliver nine much-needed new affordable homes in Barnstaple.

One three-bed and eight two-bed homes will be built with part-funding from North Devon Council and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) on the Maldram Mill development in Bear Street.

This project is an extension of a housing scheme already developed by Magna West Somerset Housing Association (MWS), which last year saw 11 new affordable homes officially opened at Granary Court, Bear Street.

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North Devon-based building firm, Loosemore, has been contracted to carry out the work. They will use local labour and sub-contractors throughout the project.

The project has been funded with a £413,000 investment from the HCA, £204,000 from North Devon Council and £504,000 from MWS, who will manage the project.

Corporate Development Manager Barbara Venn said: "At a time when funding is short and homelessness is increasing, it is wonderful that we have been given this great opportunity to deliver a key priority for the council. It will be great bonus for those local families in housing need and brings much-needed investment in a local building company during these difficult economic times."

MWS Director, Tony Murray said: "We are pleased that work is starting on the transformation of a run-down building into nine new affordable homes, something, which is greatly needed in Barnstaple."

(CD/GK)