Located on the former Crossleas site in Sacriston, Chester-le-Street, the development of 22 two-bedroom bungalows is being built by social landlord Cestria Community Housing with funding from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

The development is the association's first ever affordable housing new build project and will help to regenerate the local area. The energy-efficient bungalows will include off-street parking and gardens and are designed to be 'Lifetime Homes'.

The scheme has received £346,000 investment from the HCA and will be developed by affordable housing and regeneration specialist, Galliford Try. It is expected to be completed in Spring 2013.

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Paul Fiddaman, Chief Executive of Cestria Community Housing, said: "It is great to see work starting on site, which also marks the start of our first ever new build development. This is a very exciting time for Cestria Community Housing and I would like to thank everyone involved in the project. It will be a very proud moment to unveil these new bungalows to our tenants."

Bill Carr, Area Manager at the HCA, said: "The need for older persons, good quality homes for rent is well established in Durham. It’s good to hear that Cestria have been granted permission to go ahead with this important housing scheme and heartening that another locally based housing provider is involved in building new homes in the area. I look forward to seeing these homes on site and available for the benefit of local people."

Stephen McCoy, Galliford Try Partnerships North Managing Director, said: "It is extremely satisfying to be able to commence works on this important development for both Cestria Community Housing and the people of Sacriston. Crossleas represents another vital step in providing affordable housing in the North East and we look forward to working with our partners to provide local people in the area with the quality housing they deserve."

(CD/GK)