A DISUSED garage area has been transformed into new affordable council housing in Winchester.

The five new homes in Bailey Close, Stanmore, were officially opened by Winchester City Council leader and Portfolio Holder for Housing, Cllr Caroline Horrill, Winchester and Chandler’s Ford MP Steve Brine, and the Mayor of Winchester Cllr Frank Pearson.

Before, the area was in poor condition but has been given a new lease of life and become a contemporary development for applicants from the council’s housing waiting list register.

Cllr Horrill said: “I am delighted that this development is now complete and more of our residents will benefit from a council home.

“It is no secret that the Winchester district is one of the most expensive places to live in the UK and that is why we continue to be committed to providing more affordable homes so residents can live and work here.”

The development comes as the council launched its new housebuilding target of 1,000 affordable homes in the next ten years.