The start of work on a new affordable housing development in Hayle, Cornwall, has been celebrated by partners involved in the project.

Representatives from Penwith Housing Association (PHA) joined Hayle town Mayor Cllr Jayne Ninnes and other local partners on site to mark the start of work on the new development.

The scheme at High Lanes Meadow will see seven homes created for shared ownership, enabling people who cannot afford to buy a home outright to take a step on the property ladder. To be considered for the scheme, all applicants have to be registered with Cornwall Homechoice and South West Homes.

Andy Moore, Chief Executive of PHA, part of Devon & Cornwall Housing, said: "Coming together on site of our development at Hayle was very much a day of celebration for everyone who has played a part in the scheme so far. Work has started on site and I am looking forward to seeing this new scheme complete and ready for residents to move in this summer."

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Hayle mayor Cllr Jayne Ninnes said: "High quality affordable homes are much needed in Hayle at the moment. With house prices many times the average wage and rents also high, it is difficult for many local people to be able to afford a home. Shared ownership schemes such as this one provided by PHA and DCH make it possible for some families to access high quality homes in a way that they otherwise could not. The homes are also built to help to reduce heating and water bills which is important for affordability and very welcome."

The total costs for the development are anticipated to be around £716,000, with £102,000 in investment coming from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA). Devon & Cornwall Housing has worked closely with Cornwall Council to design and deliver a scheme which will meet identified local needs.

The affordable homes are being built on a brownfield site and will meet Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes, which means residents will benefit further from reduced fuel and water bills.

(CD/GK)