MORE than 120 new homes are set to transform a deprived part of Burnley.

Keepmoat Housing is to commence work tomorrow on the cleared site off Branch Road.

The move, on a site that was previously boarded up, has been hailed as 'wonderful' by councillors.

Coun Roger Frost, executive member for planning and environment, said the houses would transform Burnley Wood.

“This development is something that the executive, the ward councillors and the residents of the neighbourhood have been striving for, and it is wonderful to see the ball rolling on the new homes,”

he said.

“The new homes on Sussex Street that were completed earlier this year signalled the beginning of the new Burnley Wood and this new large scale development will see the neighbourhood transformed beyond recognition.”

The first phase of building work will deliver 53 two, three and four bedroomed new homes, of which 15 will be for the Accent Group and funded by the Homes and Communities Agency.

Mike Cook, director of regeneration and housing for Burnley Council, said: “The start of work in Burnley Wood is the result of determination from all partners to provide what our residents needed, which is new homes to replace derelict empty ones.

“We've kept in touch regularly with our residents groups every step of the way, and are confident that our plans for the area, working with Keepmoat and Accent to provide high quality housing, are what is best for the neighbourhood and its residents.

“We are delighted that they are now underway, and that the area is continuing its transformation into a modern, vibrant neighbourhood that people are proud of.”

Ian Fletcher, partnership development manager at Keepmoat Homes, said: “The partnership has worked hard to ensure this development goes ahead and I know we’re all committed to delivering new, quality and affordable housing in Burnley.

“I am very much looking forward to seeing this development completed and the first resident move in.”

The first properties will be completed by Spring next year.