At the end of a two year build programme residents in Crook are celebrating the completion of County Durham's newest council homes, thanks to investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) of over £2.5m.

In total £5.6m has been invested to provide 46 apartments and four bungalows providing accommodation for the over 55s which is energy efficient and adaptable to allow people to stay if they become less mobile.

The final residents moved into the Park Avenue Close scheme this summer and came together with everyone involved in the project for the celebration and an official opening by Pat Ritchie, chief executive of the HCA.

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Finance for the development, built by Keepmoat, came from Durham County Council and the HCA while the building and residents are cared for by Dale & Valley Homes.

Performing the official opening, Mrs Ritchie said: "I am really pleased to open this scheme, which shows how working with our local authority partners can make such a difference for local people. Our investment has helped Dale & Valley Homes provide a choice of homes that will help ensure local people can stay in their community. I am particularly pleased that our support has helped Dale & Valley Homes to continue their excellent apprenticeship programme, helping to secure jobs for local people."

The building's features include a boiler which uses waste heat from heating the building to generate electricity for the communal areas. There are also lounge areas where residents can gather and organise communal activities.

Cllr Clive Robson, cabinet member for housing at Durham County Council, said: "We are delighted to see the opening of these new, high quality units which provide valuable homes for people over the age of 55 in Crook. Their excellent design and energy efficient performance is an example of the standards of housing that Durham County Council is proud to own."

(CD)