LIB DEMS CALL FOR MORE COUNCIL HOMES TO BE BUILT IN THE OUTER WEST

The Liberal Democrats are calling for more council housing to be built in the Outer West of Newcastle.

Councillor Mike Lynch, Lib Dem councillor for Newburn Ward, spoke out after work recently began to build the first council houses in the city for more than 20 years.

Developers are building the new bungalows on land at the corner of Coach Road and Hallow Drive in Throckley.

Some are being made available for rent through Your Homes Newcastle, which manages the council's housing stock, and others will be sold privately.

Councillor Lynch said: "Local people are really pleased that work has started on these bungalows.

"However, there is great demand for council-owned bungalows locally and I have already spoken to YHN to see whether even more homes can be built in the ward."

Lib Dem ward colleague Councillor Mike Curthoys added: "A lot of older people living in Newburn Village and Throckley would happily swap their rented three-bedroom house for a new bungalow, which would free up these houses for families."

Meanwhile a drop-in day, from 10am-4pm, is being held on September 26 at Throckley Village Hall for tenants at the Leazes about the planned works for the estate.

For more information on YHN matters contact the Broomy Hill Road housing office, which is open Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 12.30pm. Tel 277 7940.