WORK has started on a new housing development in Helmsley after nearly a decade in the planning.

Wharfedale Homes has begun the first phase of a 60-home development on the Swanland site and is offering new build discounts to local people.

The development will go up in three phases and several of the 14 properties in the first phase have already been reserved off plan.

Phases two and three of the development will include six two bedroom properties for sale at a discounted price to local residents will be made available in the second half of 2018. There will also be one and two bedroom properties available to rent.

Wharfedale Homes director Chris Patmore is pleased that work is finally underway.

He said: “We have spent nearly ten years working through the planning system to be able to bring this site forward.

“We have worked closely with the local community, the Helmsley estate, National Park planning officers and the National Park committee to create a superb development which is worthy of its very special location.”

Mr Patmore said the company was keen for the community to benefit from the development and a contribution of £44.000 has already been made to improvement works to the Helmsley Recreation Ground from Wharfedale’s previous development at Linkfoot Lane.

For 2017 Wharfedale Homes has partnered with Helmsley In Business to fund printing and distribution of 75,000 brochures to attract visitors to the area.

Carolyn Frank, chair of Helmsley in Business and owner of Libby Butler Jewellers, said: “It’s great to see work starting on the new development and to hear that interest has been so high.

“We’re very lucky to live and work in such a wonderful community, and it will be great to welcome new people to it.

“But in addition, it’s good to know that there will also be properties available for local people to either rent or buy.

“Helmsley in Business is already working closely with Wharfedale Homes to help promote the area, and to make sure that new residents feel welcomed and informed about the town, when the first homes are completed.”

Wharfedale Homes is keen to support local businesses by employing local subcontractors in joinery, labour, landscaping and more.

They are also recruiting two part-time sales advisors who will be based at the new development. Enquires can be sent to admin@wharfedalehomes.co.uk.