The affordable homes manager is working alongside housebuilder Oaktree Living and Lichfields on a 70-home scheme on seven acres of disused land in Peterlee, County Durham.

Located off Armstrong Road, work on redeveloping the former industrial site could start next year if planning permission is secured alongside government funding.

Plan for the development include eight bungalows and 62 houses, each with a garden and parking, which would be available for social rent or discounted market value sale.

A public consultation is currently underway, after which a planning application will be submitted to Durham County Council.

Tom Winter, assistant director of development at Believe said: “Our nearby Weavers Close development has been very popular, providing the high-quality affordable homes people deserve.

“However, more homes are needed, and we believe this site is perfect for development.

“We aim to deliver energy-efficient, affordable homes that are healthy and affordable to run, while regenerating this eyesore site, which has been vacant for more than two years and is no longer needed for industrial use.

“The site is well-positioned for access to amenities and employment opportunities in Peterlee as well as Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle, and beyond.”