WORK has started on new homes in a south Cumbria village.

The new housing development will be situated off Jack Hill in Allithwaite.

The Blenkett View scheme from residential developer Applethwaite will comprise 16, two, three and four bedroom detached and terraced properties and two three-bed detached bungalows.

A spokesman for South Lakeland District Council said: "The developers applied to remove the affordable housing aspect, this issue has not yet been determined.

"The ongoing application is subject to determination and we cannot comment further on this."

The developer says each property has been designed to complement the traditional village setting, with natural stone features and slate roofs.

James Whewell, sales manager of Applethwaite Ltd, said: "This small development has already generated huge interest, particularly from those locally, and will help to improve the overall quality of housing and meet the ever-increasing demand for new properties in South Lakeland.

"Nestled in a highly desirable area and just a short drive from the coastline, we don't expect these properties to be on the market long."

The first show home will be ready to view this month. The first home is due to be completed for residents to move in late summer and the overall completion of the site is expected early next year.