Local shopkeeper Amrit looks over the plans for 22 new homes opposite her store

Homes and communities organisation livin is proposing to build 22 homes to replace a derelict nursing home which has become an anti-social behaviour hotspot. livin plans to demolish the former Greenfields Nursing Home, in Newton Aycliffe and build 11 two-bedroom and 11 three-bedroom homes for affordable rent and purchase.

The new development will involve investment of around £2 million and the properties will be built in partnership with housebuilding group Galliford Try.

Ian Brown, Head of Development and Allocations, for livin said: “There is a shortage of affordable housing in Newton Aycliffe and we are working hard to identify underused land and buildings for development. This is a significant achievement for us, working in partnership with local communities to meet housing need. The site at Greenfields, if approved, will be our largest development to date and part of a programme to build a total of 45 properties in the area.”

In addition to offering the properties for affordable rent, livin are hoping to introduce its first affordable purchase scheme, which will help those looking to get onto the property ladder purchase select properties at a low cost.

A decision following the planning application is due to be announced by 25 September. If approved, work is due to start on the site in October/November this year with the properties to be completed by September 2013.

The plans to demolish the eyesore was welcome by residents in particular Amrit the local General Store owner who recently raised a 250 named petition to have the building pulled down as it was a danger to children.