A NEW £3 million housing scheme in Bury has greeted its first residents.

And East Bury resident Annette Shepherd is one of those holding the keys to a brighter future.

She is one of the first to move into a new home in Maxwell Street, on the site of the old Geoffrey Kershaw Centre.

Twenty-four houses and bungalows have been built by the Irwell Valley Housing Association, working with Bury Council, developers Bellway Homes, and residents.

Annette was handed the keys to her new home by East ward councillor Mike Connolly, the council's executive member for health, housing and social services.

Coun Connolly said: "It is great to see that all the hard work that has gone into the scheme is now providing real homes for local people.

"These houses symbolise what is taking place in East Bury. Old is giving way to new, but not in a way that is being imposed on local residents. Instead, they have been very involved in decision-making and have had a real opportunity to shape the community and the future for themselves."

The £3 million investment also includes 39 similar houses and flats in Shaw Street.

John Fedden, Irwell Valley Housing Association spokesman, said: "Our lettings staff report strong demand for the homes at both sites and we are really pleased with the properties and the benefits they will bring to the community. All the homes should be completed by July.

"We are also planning to fund another 14 houses, which will be built on a site at Maple Avenue.

"These will be for shared ownership, where the occupiers purchase a share of the property and then pay a proportional rent on the remainder. After 12 months through the scheme, which is aimed at first-time buyers, they will be able to purchase the house outright."