Social housing provider Bernicia has revealed plans to invest nearly £200 million in building hundreds of new homes across the North East.

At least 500 new homes will be built by 2023, helping to tackle the demand for 'affordable social housing in the region.

Elsewhere, Bernicia will invest £60m into improving its existing housing stock and boost support services for its 60,000 customers who live in properties across Northumberland, North Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, County Durham and Hartlepool.

Features of the £190m investment plan includes;

• £70m funding to build at least 500 new homes

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• A £60m planned programme of investments in its existing 14,000 properties

• A £50m responsive repairs programme

• £7m spend on improving the communities and neighbourhoods Bernicia manages

• New digital technology to make it easier for customers to access services

Bernicia Chief Executive, John Johnston, said: "Bernicia is in an ideal position to help drive forward the North East's vision for growth and prosperity, especially within the housing sector.

"Our investment strategy is an exciting opportunity for us to build on the high levels of customer satisfaction we have, delivering the high quality, affordable homes that our region badly needs now and in the future.

"As a company formed and based in the North East, we care deeply about our tenants and the communities they live in.

"We will be investing in those neighbourhoods by not only improving our existing homes but by supporting community projects bringing people together and creating opportunities for people to improve their lives.

"Bernicia is also investing in digital technologies to transform our services for customers, so that they can access our support at times and in a way that suits their needs."

(LM/MH)