WORK has started on a controversial £2.2m scheme to build 16 affordable homes on green belt land in Stocksfield.

The joint venture by Two Castles Housing Association and Esh Property Services, on land at New Ridley, was bitterly opposed by local residents, because the site is remote from villages services and in the green belt.

The original plan was for 55 homes and even after being scaled down to 22 properties it was turned down unanimously by Northumberland County Council's west area planning committee in July 2013.

However, it was finally given the go-ahead last September when the number of homes was reduced to 16.

Developers say the new homes will be specifically available for people who live in Stocksfield, or have a local connection to the area.

Situated on land to the west of the Grove, the scheme will comprise 16 high quality two and three bedroom houses and bungalows, some of which will provide shared ownership opportunities for local first-time buyers looking to get on to the property ladder.

Construction was due to start earlier this year, but was delayed after an overhead power cable had to relocated under ground.

Part-funded by the Homes and Communities Agency with an investment of £360,000 and with support from Northumberland County Council, the scheme is due to be completed by next September.