Contractors drafted in to build 22 new energy-efficient council homes have broken ground on-site.

Once complete, this new-build neighbourhood will consist of 22 properties, including three four-bedroom, eight three-bedroom and nine two-bedroom semi-detached houses. There will also be two two-bedroom detached houses, all of which will be available for council tenants on the housing waiting list.

The homes will be the epicentre of the regenerated Bellamy estate, which is also home to a new parade of shops, now built and ready to be let out. Also, a new through road and a newly installed green space are all in the pipeline with building contractor Mercer.

Mayor Andy Abrahams said: “As well as building 22 well-designed, energy-efficient family homes, these much-needed houses will enable the council to play its part in tackling climate change and, just as importantly, help our tenants save money with lower electricity and heating bills.

“Social value is also hugely important to us, so it is pleasing to see that 88 percent of the people employed on the project are from within 20 miles of Mansfield, against a target of 60 percent.

“We want to expand this practice with all our local partners and suppliers to multiply the benefits to our economy, with the aim of seeing money being earned and spent in the Mansfield district.”

The Bellamy regeneration scheme has a projected total cost of £7.7 million and is due to be completed next year.

The site’s regeneration began more than 18 months ago with the installation of a new play park and a learn-to-cycle track for children.