PLANS to build 40 new homes have been welcomed by the area’s MP, who said there is a ‘desperate need’ for more homes that people can afford.

Housing association Home Group is working on proposals to build 22 affordable homes to rent and 18 homes for local occupancy in Ambleside's  Borrans Road.

A spokesman for the group said plans are expected to be submitted ‘around the end of August’, with the aim to begin work in February or March 2023.

A public consultation where residents can see the plans and share their thoughts will take place on July 25 between 4pm and 6pm at the Kelsick Centre in Ambleside.

The organisation said it had already received positive feedback on the scheme after it sent out flyers about the development to residents.

Earlier this year, Lakes Parish Council, which covers Ambleside, the Langdales, Rydal and Loughrigg, Grasmere and Troutbeck, said it was seeing young people move away to get on the housing ladder as rising house and rental prices continue to soar.

MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale Tim Farron welcomed the plan and said there was a ‘desperate need’ for more homes that local families can afford.

Read more:Young Cumbrians having to 'move away' to get on the housing ladder

“There is a desperate need for more homes that local families can afford here in Cumbria,” he said.

“We run a serious risk of the Lakes becoming somewhere where only millionaires with second homes can afford to live in, with devastating impacts for local businesses, schools and public services.

“So I warmly welcome any move to build more truly affordable homes so that young people are able to stay in the town or village they grew up in.”

David Armstrong, senior development and delivery manager at Home Group, encouraged people to attend Monday's consultation.

“We are really excited to bring these plans to the community in Ambleside and hear their thoughts," he said.

“We are holding a public consultation on Monday afternoon (July 25) at the Kelsick Centre between 4-6pm.

“We encourage anyone who wants to know more about the project to come along, where we’ll be showing off plans and images of the new homes.”