Work on a £4.5 million scheme to build 19 affordable and energy-saving homes in Oldham is underway.

First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) is behind the development in Hathershaw as part of a strategy to deliver 1,100 high-quality, sustainable properties in Oldham and surrounding areas between 2020-2026.

FCHO has enlisted Arca Construct Ltd as the main contractor for the scheme, which is estimated to be completed by summer 2025.

The project includes 16 three-bedroom houses in Belgrave Road and a further three three-bedroom homes in neighbouring Thatcher Street.

The development, which is utilising £1.07m in Homes England funding and a £285,000 Brownfield Housing Fund grant via Greater Manchester Combined Authority, involves transforming a former garage site into homes for affordable rent.

As part of FCHO’s green focus and sustainability targets set in its Big Plan and Sustainability Strategy all the homes are eco-friendly.

Each property is being built to ensure the performance of materials that make up the building are maximised – known as a ‘fabric first approach’ – and are set to achieve energy performance certificate (EPC) B.

Joel Owen, Development Director at FCHO, said: “It is fantastic to see these energy-efficient and affordable homes starting to take shape. Not only do they complement our commitment to provide high quality and affordable homes to people in the communities we are based in and serve but also our work to have sustainable and energy-efficient housing stock.”

Nigel Lonsdale, Head of Construction at Arca Construct, said: “We understand the critical role First Choice Homes Oldham plays in providing affordable housing and are delighted to be working with them on this scheme.

“We pride ourselves on being a trusted partner, delivering exceptional results at competitive rates. Our membership in the Considerate Constructors Scheme and CHAS Elite underscores our commitment to quality and responsible construction.”