Forest of Dean District Council's Cabinet has approved a proposal to fund a development of 10 new affordable homes in Newent.

The funding of £108,000, sourced solely from developer contributions will see the one bedroom rental apartments built on residential land at Southend Nurseries, Southend Lane, Newent, subject to planning permission.

The project has been given the go ahead by Cabinet to help meet the affordable housing need in the district.

The development will be built and managed by Two Rivers Housing, based in Newent.

Councillor Richard Leppington, Cabinet Member for Development, Asset Management, Planning Policy, Infrastructure and Housing said: "This announcement is fantastic news for the Forest and is part of our commitment to provide quality homes in the district that young people can afford to rent."

Garry King, Chief Executive for Two Rivers Housing, added: "We are delighted with this news and to be bringing 10 new affordable homes to Newent. Gloucestershire has a chronic shortage of affordable housing and this has a particularly challenging effect on young people and families. We are building as many homes as we can in an effort to bridge the gap and house people who need a low-cost option to put a roof over their heads and keep our communities alive."