THE developers of a new housing estate in Prudhoe launched their affordable homes on offer at the site this week.

A total of £79m is being invested by Gentoo Homes in Cottier Grange, on the old Prudhoe Hospital site, to build a total of 404 homes.

Affordable housing at the development is made up of 61 two-bedroom homes for rent, and a further 60 three-bedroom homes available to purchase at a discounted market value via private housebuilder, Gentoo Homes.

Last week local councillors and Hexham’s MP Guy Opperman went to visit the development, ahead of the launch of the first affordable rented homes.

Susie Thompson, director of neighbourhoods at Gentoo Group, said: “As a housing association with its roots firmly in the North-East, providing much needed affordable housing for local people is hugely important to us and we’re delighted to be bringing these new homes for rent to such a unique housing development in the Tyne Valley.”

Gentoo Group will be releasing the total of 61 affordable homes for rent through Northumberland Homefinder over the next few years, 13 of which it hopes will be occupied by the spring.

Applications will be accepted for the next available homes during the next bidding window, between midnight on Wednesday, January 30 and midnight on Monday, February 4. 

Speaking during a recent visit to the development, Mr Opperman, said: “It was great to see the new affordable housing that Gentoo are providing for local people in Prudhoe, and the surrounding area.

“These are quality homes in a beautiful area facing woodland and the burn.”