LOCAL developer Devonshire Homes has announced that 19 new homes at its Gilbert Scott Way residential development will be occupied by Christmas.

The development on the site of the former Belmont Hospital in Tiverton includes 12 affordable homes that have already been sold to the Devon and Cornwall Housing Association.

The first homes to be occupied will include two bedroom apartments, as well as two and three bedroom houses.

Jane Pearce, Sales Manager at Devonshire Homes, said: “We are delighted to welcome so many new residents into their new homes by the end of the year. The latest completions mean that out of the 32 properties within phase one and two of the development, over 50 per cent are ready for their new owners to move in.

“This is a great achievement and proves Gilbert Scott Way is on track to grow as a vibrant community.”

Jane added: “The development is proving very popular with homeowners looking to get on the property ladder and we anticipate further new residents choosing to move into this area to benefit from the fantastic commuter links Tiverton offers.”

Work has already started on phase three of the development to convert the existing main building into apartments and the removal of the neighbouring derelict Twyford building.

The development received a boost last year when it received £2m in Government funding support through the Get Britain Building scheme. In total the development will provide 76 new homes.

Overall the scheme is expected to contribute to the wider regeneration of Tiverton town centre.