Work to construct the first new council houses in Ipswich for more than 20 years has started.

Seven homes for rent are being built on sites in Coltsfoot Road, Chantry, and Whitton Church Lane, in the north west area of the town.

A project for more than 100 council homes in Bader Close is also planned.

The planned scheme will be the biggest council house scheme in Ipswich for 50 years.

The work is being done by RG Carter and it is estimated that 70 people will be involved with the building project, from design to fitting out the properties. David Ellesmere, leader of the borough council, hailed the start of work on the project as an important milestone.

He said: “Our programme will provide much-needed affordable homes for local people and give a jobs boost to the Ipswich economy.”

The borough council’s housing portfolio holder, John Mowles, added: “We are looking forward to the completion of these houses in north-west Ipswich, as the first stage in our promise to help people find a home.

“Homes and jobs are the cornerstone of this council’s commitment to the development of a fairer Ipswich.”