ABOUT 400 affordable homes will be built in Wrexham over the next three to five years after a pledge by Wrexham Council and the Assembly government.
The local authority’s executive board has backed plans for a joint venture agreement (JVA) with the Assembly which will see both contribute land on which housing can be built.
A review of council-owned land was recently undertaken with a number of potential locations identified for development.
The local authority has earmarked 30 suitable sites, including the Napier Square/Gatefield area, following the executive board's decision on November 3 to move forward with plans to demolish the Hightown Flats.
The Welsh Assembly Government will put forward the Bridge Street/Brook Street area of town for redevelopment.
Bridge Street is a main route into the town centre and the affordable homes will form part of major regeneration project.
Council leader Aled Roberts said: “In the current economic climate, people are finding it harder than ever to get on the property ladder.
“Everyone has the right to a good quality, affordable home.
“The proposed joint venture is an exciting and innovative project that will not only see new affordable homes built, but massive regeneration that will create new jobs and boost the local economy.”
The council's aim is to build 2,205 affordable homes by 2021, as outlined in the Wrexham Housing Needs Assessment.
Officers are hoping to attract interest from contractors for the work in the new year.