A FORMER industrial site in Widnes is being transformed into much needed new homes.

Halton Housing Trust has secured planning permission to build 118 properties on Tanhouse Lane.

Work is expected to begin in March with the initial demolition and remediation of the7.3 acre site, followed by a three and a half year construction programme.

The first homes are expected to be completed in early 2019.

The project is part of a £14 million investment by the trust and Russell Homes.

Nicky Harris, development manager for Halton Housing, said:“We are investing heavily in building new homes to help meet the current high demand.

"This project will also allow us to continue the important work of regenerating these derelict industrial sites, totally transforming the area into an attractive and aspirational new residential community.”

The first 185-home Tan House Lane housing scheme started in early 2015 and has seen the handover of 133 properties to Halton Housing Trust for affordable rent, with another 10 shared ownership houses still under construction.

Russell Homes sold the remaining 42 on the open market.

Daniel Kershaw, director of Russell Homes, said: “Together these two developments provide just over 300 much needed new homes for Halton, improving both the rental housing stock available, and giving many people the opportunity to buy for the very first time.

“Indeed 79 per cent of those who have already bought at Bower Brook Gardens were first time buyers and most made use of the government’s help to buy scheme.

“Working together has allowed us to bring vacant sites back into use in the best way possible, creating good quality homes for local people.

“The homes we deliver for Halton Housing Trust are of the same high standard as the private properties and we believe this is an important element in creating a cohesive and sustainable community.”