FAMILIES in Kingswinford are now settling into their new homes as the keys to the latest council houses are handed over.

Dudley Council has been working in partnership with developer Jessup Brothers during the last few months to create affordable homes for families on former garage sites.

In Marley Road, five two bedroom homes have been built as part of a £650,000 development, which will provide families with contemporary living spaces, private gardens and driveways.

The council has also spent £1.4million to develop 11 new homes in Coseley.

The work on the developments, which is part of the council’s millions of pounds worth of investment into new housing, was completed ahead of schedule and within budget.

Alan Lunt, strategic director of place at Dudley Council, said: “These new builds are of huge significance to the borough as they provide 16 new affordable homes that are in such high demand.

“We anticipate an additional 55 homes will be built this year, giving a clear message that we are doing what we can to support families of all ages by providing good quality affordable homes.

“Every single new house, bungalow or apartment we create counts, as each one provides a home and an opportunity for people to set down roots and be part of a community.”

The homes are also the first to be delivered through a construction framework agreement between Dudley Council and Jessup Brothers, which the local authority hope will create a more cost effective and efficient way of working.

Council bosses said the developers have pre-agreed the standard of house design and cost, allowing the local authority to reduce its costs and achieve “better value for money”.

Clive Jessup, managing director at Jessup Brothers, said: “Jessup is delighted to be working closely with Dudley Council to deliver much needed new homes across the region.

“Marley Road and Davies Avenue are the first of several sites we are delivering together to improve the lives of the community of Dudley.”