PLANS to build homes on a former orchard in south Cumbria have been given the green light – with half the proposed properties set to be affordable.

Westmorland and Furness Council has approved an outline planning application from Persimmon Homes to build eight homes on land north of Briery Bank in Arnside.

According to planning documents, two of the proposed properties will be available for affordable rent and two of the properties will be available for low-cost ownership.

Planning documents say: “This development aims to provide 8 high-quality homes that enhance character and meet the needs of Arnside. The site lies within an area which has been allocated for housing under the adopted plan.”

According to the plan, there will not be a biodiversity net gain but the developer has pledged to contribute £3,000 to Cumbria Wildlife Trust for the creation of 1.1 hectares of species-rich wet and acidic pasture at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve.

Westmorland and Furness Council approved the application on April 29.