FAMILIES have started 2015 in brand new homes finished just before Christmas.

The 14 two-bedroomed houses were built at Primrose Crescent in Bournmoor, Chester-le-Street, by the area’s biggest social landlord, Cestria Community Housing.

The scheme received £210,000 from the Homes and Communities Agency’s Affordable Homes Guarantee Programme and features energy efficiency and sustainability measures.

Cestria has also built 22 new homes at Crossleas in Sacriston, and is building 24 two-bedroom homes at The Green, Nettlesworth, and 58 two bedroom apartments and bungalows for the over- 55s in the centre of Chester-le-Street.

Cestria managing director Martin Warhurst, said: “Bournmoor is our second new build development of affordable new homes and represents another key milestone for Cestria.

“We have bold ambitions to increase the supply of affordable housing across the district and this scheme is proof we are delivering on those ambitions.

“It’s vital that we continue to build high quality modern homes at rents which are within the reach of people on lower incomes.”

Jade Storey, 22, moved into her new home with her two daughters, Lexi and Lola, aged two and 13 weeks, after living in shared accommodation in Chester-le-Street.

She said: “The home is wonderful. It’s a big improvement from where I was living before and is a lot warmer, clean and quiet. It’s ideal for me and my family.”