An initiative to build 66 new affordable homes in Thetford will “make a real difference to families,” according to one of the local district councillors.

An initiative to build 66 new affordable homes in Thetford will “make a real difference to families,” according to one of the local district councillors.

Breckland Council's cabinet has agreed to hand over several areas of land on the Barnham Cross estate worth �135,000 to Flagship Peddars Way Housing Association.

Restrictive covenants, affecting some of the garage forecourts at Sweyn Close and Fulmerston Road, will also be removed, which has been valued at �85,000.

Both deals will allow the 66 affordable homes to be built.

District councillor Marion Chapman-Allen said: “Affordable housing is an important issue in Thetford and these 66 homes will make a real difference to the families who come to live in them. The development will also be another milestone in the rejuvenation of the Barnham Cross estate.

“This is yet another example of Breckland Council using its land assets responsibly and to the best possible advantage of residents. I only hope this contribution will spur the Homes and Communities Agency into releasing the funding necessary to enable building to begin as soon as possible.”