PROPOSALS to build the first new council homes for a generation in the town are set to move forward this week.

The borough wants to build new homes on small pockets of land off Coltsfoot Road on the Chantry estate and Whitton Church Lane.

It also wants to go ahead with a larger development off Bader Close on Priory Heath.

Up to 120 homes would be built across the three sites in partnership with the Orwell Housing Association.

This week there are meetings to give residents of the Coltsfoot Road and Whitton Church Lane areas a chance to have their say on the proposed developments.

However the homes would be built on land already earmarked for residential use.

The Coltsfoot Road consultation will take place in the communal meeting room at Chantry Community Shop, 26 Lavender Hill, from 3pm to 6pm this afternoon.

The Whitton Church Lane consultation will be held in the first floor community room at Whitton Sports Centre, Whitton Church Lane from 3pm until 6pm on Wednesday.

John Mowles, borough councillor with responsibility for housing, said: “These sites are owned by the Council, which makes it easier to proceed quickly.

“They are already in residential areas, so development will make good use of these under-used sites. The building of council homes will also create much-needed jobs – another key priority of the Council.”

The council is also examining other sites across the town and expects to make further announcements in the near future.

There is also potential at stalled development sites, derelict areas and in the redevelopment of existing properties in poor condition.