RESIDENTS of a new Bewdley housing development have given their homes a thumbs up following an official opening.

The 16 family properties at Springhill Rise were unveiled by The Community Housing Group at a special ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The development features a mix of two and three bedroom energy efficient houses, built by Oakleaf Commercial Services, with the aim of getting on the property ladder through shared ownership – which is part rent and part buy.

New property owner Sam Davies said: “I can’t wait to move in. It’s so exciting that I finally have my own home and the chance to get onto the property ladder.

“I’ve lived on Wribbenhall my whole life so I’m thrilled that I can stay in the area near my family.

“My son is so excited about finally having his own bedroom and this new home has enabled me to give my children somewhere nice to grow up with all the space they need and for us to move forward with our lives.

“The Shared Ownership team has been fantastic throughout the whole process; they offered me support with everything and made the process really easy.”

Ray Brookes, Group Chief Executive, added: “We are committed to providing new affordable homes across the district and within our three year business plan.

“We propose to build 299 more new homes through our ambitious development programme.”

The Community Housing Group were supported by Homes England, who helped them secure Government funding for the scheme.

Christine Seaton, Senior Housing Delivery Manager, Midlands for Homes England, said: “It’s fantastic to see these new homes ready for residents to move in.

“We are pleased to have funded these new homes in Bewdley as part of Homes England's commitment to increasing the supply of affordable homes.”