A derelict pub in Whitwick is set to be transformed into much-needed affordable rented homes after being bought by the council.

North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) has confirmed it has bought The Oak on Talbot Street as part of work to increase the number of affordable homes across the district.

Time was called on the pub in 2013 when it became vacant, and since then it has sat empty.

Outline planning permission to demolish the pub and build eight homes was granted by the council in May this year - when an application from Ashby-based D & R Richards was submitted.

Read how Coalville Nub News reported that story HERE.

More detailed plans for the layout and design of the small development will follow in the new year.

Subject to a full planning application, work to build the homes should start in summer 2022.

Once complete, the homes will be available to rent via the Choice Based Lettings scheme; there are currently 1,200 people waiting for an affordable home in the district.

Transformation of the site will add to the council's housing stock of 4,100 homes.

In addition to this scheme, an extra nine properties are also being bought from developer Peveril Homes as part of Section 106 commitments at The Coppice development in Ravenstone.

While an additional four homes, including a detached bungalow, are also being purchased from Chevin Homes as part of a section 106 agreement for homes on Worthington Drive, Newbold Coleorton.

Councillor Roger Bayliss, Portfolio Holder for Housing at NWLDC, said: "We are delighted to have bought The Oak's site to provide much-needed affordable rented council homes for local people in housing need.

"The site has been a local eyesore for many years now and we look forward to improving its appearance in the short term, for the benefit of the local community before developing it next year.

"We're committed to expanding the availability of affordable rented homes across the district and as well as building our own homes, are also working with developers through section 106 purchases on larger developments."