A MULTI-million pound affordable housing scheme was unveiled in Thetford as its tenants were formally welcomed into their new homes.

A MULTI-million pound affordable housing scheme was unveiled in Thetford as its tenants were formally welcomed into their new homes.

The 15-home scheme, on Saxon Bank, includes triple glazed windows to minimise heat loss, large glass panes on all south-facing walls to harness the heat of the sun and special insulation.

Air source heating systems also recycle heat and sustainable materials such as timber were used to keep the development's carbon footprint to a minimum.

The mix of one, two and three-bedroom houses and flats will be available to people on Breckland Council's housing register.

Executive member for planning, health and house at the council, said: “We know that local people and our local communities need, and want, these developments and that is vitally important to us.

“We are committed to increasing the provision of affordable housing in the district, with the results being good quality homes for Breckland that we can all be proud of.”

The �2m Suffolk Housing Society scheme was officially opened by chairman of Breckland council, John Rogers, who unveiled a specially commissioned paving stone.

Managing director of development company Iceni Homes, said: “It's extremely gratifying to see the completion of such an innovative and exciting scheme, which is a shining example of high quality, sustainable development which we hope will set a benchmark for the future.”