Work has begun on a £2.6m scheme to build affordable homes on the site of a former mill.

Twenty-five new houses are being constructed after plans for land on Acorn Street in Lees, Oldham, were drawn up by Contour Homes and Seddon Construction.

The development of two, three and four-bedroom properties will provide much-needed affordable homes in an area of high demand, including 20 available for rent. The remaining five will be offered for sale at 50 per cent shared-ownership, helping first-time buyers to get a foot on the property ladder.


Mark Edwards, project manager at Contour Homes, said: "Lees is a popular area and there is strong demand but limited availability of affordable housing. This development is a major investment in the community and we hope it will have a really positive impact, including helping first-time buyers to secure a home of their own."

The site once housed Owl Mill, which was built in 1898 and operated until production ceased in 1990 and demolition took place.

Seddon Construction managing director Jonathan Seddon added: "This is an important scheme which will deliver high-quality new affordable homes for the area, creating much-needed homes for rent as well as five shared ownership properties which will provide an opportunity for local people to gain a foothold on the housing ladder."

(CD/GK)