RESIDENTS are being invited to share their views on plans to build a block of flats on the site of a former church in Runcorn.

Housing association Onward Homes has launched a public consultation on its plans to build 12 new apartments on the former site of the Murdishaw Methodist Church, just off the Ridgeway in Murdishaw.

The land has been allocated by Halton Borough Council for residential development, and Onward says the plans aim to bring ‘more much-needed affordable homes to the area’.

All 12 homes, contained within a three-storey apartment block, would be made available through rent-to-buy, meaning that residents would pay a reduced rental rate of around 80 per cent of market rent while they save for a deposit on their home.

Onward says it has worked closely with the council on the proposals to ‘ensure the right mix of homes’, comprising one and two-bedroom options.

Once residents have had the opportunity to feed back on the proposals, Onward intends to submit a planning application to the council later in the autumn.

Stephen Heverin, growth and regeneration director at Onward, said: “Our proposals for the disused Ridgeway site reflect our ongoing commitment to improve the quality and choice of affordable housing in Murdishaw.

“These homes would help people find an affordable route into home ownership through our popular rent-to-buy tenure.”

Between Friday, September 8, and Friday, September 22, Onward is inviting residents to view the proposals online and submit their feedback.

During this time, residents can find out more about the plans and share any feedback by visiting onward.co.uk/Ridgeway/ or emailing Ridgeway@onward.co.uk

Residents can also call 0300 555 0600 or write to Onward Homes, Renaissance Court, 2 Christie Way, Didsbury, Manchester M21 7QY.