FAMILIES have moved into 16 new sustainable homes in Great Lever after the completion of a £1.6 million project.

Eight two bedroom homes and another eight three bedroom properties in Clarendon Street have now been occupied following the scheme by Great Places Housing Group.

About 200 residents living in nearby houses in Bridgeman Street and Gregson Field had signed a petition in protest at the plans when they first came before Bolton Council's planning committee in October 2014.

They complained that the development would mean a loss of trees and green space, but the council later approved the plans in January last year.

As part of the agreement with Bolton Council for the lease of the land that the properties were built on, the housing group has contributed almost £10,000 for a tree planting scheme at Clarendon Street School and elsewhere in Great Lever.

Matthew Harrison, chief executive of Great Places Housing Group, said: "We’re delighted with the completion of the homes on Clarendon Street which have been built to a high design standard, are eco-friendly and inexpensive to run.

"We hope the new tenants settle here for many years to come."

More than £350,000 of the cost was funded from grants awarded by the Government’s Homes and Communities Agency.

Each house has been fitted with technology to help eliminate surface condensation which can cause damp, in a bid to offer energy saving and health benefits to residents.

In addition, the properties are all classed as sustainable homes after meeting specific requirements to make them cost effective and eco friendly.

Jamie Wilson, a resident who moved into her new home in February, said: "I love the new house, it’s in a brilliant location over the road from the park.

“I lived on a busy road before so my children couldn’t play out. They’ve settled here and have made lots of new friends on the street. We’re really happy here," she added.

Five apprentices from the housing group's employment and training team gained experience during the project, working with bricklayers and joiners on site from contractors RP Tyson.

Jobs were also created for two university graduates who worked in the surveying and buying departments.