A DEVELOPMENT of 49 affordable homes in Sholver has been given planning approval.

First Choice Homes Oldham applied for permission to create 20 two-bed and 29 three-bed homes at land off Coleridge Road.

The site was previously occupied by three-storey blocks of social housing flats which were demolished in 2012, however parking areas and an access road remain.

The site will be redeveloped to contain 41- rent to buy homes, 8 affordable rent homes (two bungalows and six cottage style homes) and will also include a new adoptable standard road linking Coleridge Road with Stevenson Drive.

The site will be access from both from Coleridge Road and Stevenson Drive with each property having at least one off-street car parking space.

Trees currently on the site will be removed and replaced as part of a new landscaping scheme.

Natalie Blackston, of FCHO, said: "A large demand has been identified for two and three bedroom properties in Sholver and this scheme has been developed in response to this demand.

"The proposal delivers a housing mix that is suitable to the local community and the housing market."

She added that the site is a "key gateway" at the entrance to Sholver off Ripponden Road and is well serviced by local transport links and amenities.

She added: "The proposed development will have substantial economic and social benefits and will assist in meeting the current regeneration objectives by improving the local environment in an established residential area and by contributing to activity and use of local services."

A total of 15 early bird expressions of interest for the properties have already been received by First Choice Homes by, Ms Blackston added.

Ward Councillor Ginny Alexander also spoke in support of the application.

She said: "The site presents an opportunity to establish a new image and identity for Sholver."

The application was unanimously agreed.