Work starts on eco-homes project in Gateshead
Work has begun to create a street of eco-homes on the site of a derelict filling station on Tyneside.
The site in Durham Road, Gateshead, has been abandoned for some years and has attracted complaints from neighbours.
Gateshead Council is behind the scheme to build nine energy-efficient homes which will utilise a bio-fuel heating system as well as solar panels.
Three of the homes, which are due to be completed by November, have already been sold.
The family-sized homes have been designed to blend into the Victorian frontage along Durham Road.
Each garage will also include a recharging point for an electric car.
Angela Douglas, Gateshead Council's cabinet member for housing, said: "These new homes will be among the most energy-efficient dwellings in the UK and will be yet another first for Gateshead.
"They will also remove a significant eyesore and replace it with a development which will enhance the streetscape."
The properties are being designed and built by Gateshead-based New Forest Construction.