Families and key workers are set to benefit from First Homes, the new flagship Government housing scheme being made available today in Durham.

First Homes aims to?support local people who are struggling to afford market prices in their area but want to stay in the communities where they live and work.

The scheme offers homes at a discount of at least 30% compared to the market price.

The housing secretary today visited the development in Newton Aycliffe, Durham which becomes the third early delivery project of the scheme following launches in Bolsover, Derbyshire and Cannock, Staffordshire.

‘Enabling more people to own their home is central to the mission of this government, and First Homes will offer a realistic and affordable route into home ownership for even more people,’ said Mr Jenrick.

‘It’s fantastic to be in Newton Aycliffe to see the new First Homes become available to local people here in the North-East. By offering the chance to buy a home at a 30% discount, we are giving local people, families and key workers like NHS staff and forces veterans, a route into home ownership where they already live.’