Eco homes plan for derelict site

The homes will have recharging points for electric cars

A derelict filling station which has become an eyesore on one of the main road routes into Tyneside is set to be transformed into a street of eco homes.

The site in Durham Road, Gateshead, has been abandoned for some years and has attracted complaints from neighbours.

Gateshead Council has also been worried about the impression the site gives to motorists coming into the town.

Now the council is looking to create nine energy-efficient homes which will use a bio-fuel heating system.

The homes will be designed to blend into the Victorian frontage along Durham Road.

They will be extensively insulated and will use advanced bio-fuel heating to ensure low energy bills and a small carbon footprint.

Each property's garage will also include a recharging point for an electric car.

Angela Armstrong, Gateshead Council's cabinet member for housing, said: "These new homes will be among the most energy-efficient dwellings in the UK and will be yet another first for Gateshead.

"They will also remove a significant eyesore and replace it with a development which will enhance the streetscape."

The locally-based New Forest Group will design and build the properties.