Controversial plans to build 80 new homes in Carlisle have been given the go-ahead.

Gleeson Homes has been granted planning permission to build the houses on land at Kingmoor Road, Belah, North Carlisle.

The development, which will be known as Deer Park, will see the seven acre site transformed into "quality", "affordable" homes, says the developer.

Concerns have previously been raised over the plans, amid fears of over-development and the impact on biodiversity.

Previously vacant, the brownfield site has been allocated for housing since 2008, yet has struggled to take off.

With Carlisle Council originally outlining 100 homes for this site, Gleeson proposed 80 in total, which the developer says will allow them to deliver a lower density scheme with more green space.

Gleeson will begin its transformation of the land soon with construction expected to start later this summer.

In total, the development will be built over two phases, with properties on sale in winter 2021 and prospective homeowners able to register their interest online now.

Show homes are due to open in February 2022, with the first Deer Park residents expected to move into their new homes in Spring 2022.

Prices on the development are anticipated to start at £112,415, for a two-bedroom home, with the Government’s Help to Buy: Equity Loan scheme available, meaning prospective homeowners will be able to buy with a five per cent deposit.

Gleeson say they will also make several contributions to the Carlisle community, including over half a million pounds to support both primary and secondary education in the city, £22,364 towards offsite public open spaces for the neighbourhood to enjoy, £27,409 in order for the council to build an offsite play facility and lastly, £15,561 to create an offsite sports pitch.

David Wright, land director at Gleeson said:“There were a lot of disappointed first time buyers and key workers when our scheme at Deer Park was refused in December 2020 but we remained committed to providing much-needed affordable homes in this part of Carlisle and we’re now delighted to have finally secured planning permission.

"Our scheme is sensitively designed around its beautiful surroundings, releases £500,000 towards local schools and ensures an investment of £7.5million into the local economy.

"We are pleased to be supporting the infrastructure of Carlisle, as well as supporting the community by employing a workforce on site that will be made up of local labour and contractors.

“Bordering onto a nature reserve this development will boast picturesque views, with an array of amenities close by including supermarkets, pubs and takeaways. At Gleeson we specialise in building homes for people who need them most and we believe that this development will serve the community well.”

Operating throughout the north of England, Gleeson provides homes for local people, with eight existing developments already located in Cumbria, three of which are in Carlisle.

Gleeson is seeking local labour and sub-contractors to work on the Deer Park development, including applications from young people who are interested in joining the Gleeson apprenticeship scheme.

To find out more, go to: www.gleesonhomes.co.uk.