WORK is under way on the construction of 111 new homes in the heart of Cwmbran.

Social housing not-for-profit company Melin Homes has started its biggest build, the Cae Nant development, a project, costing £11.1 million, on the site of the former Brookfield Primary School.

The development will provide properties to rent and buy at a central location in the town.

Cae Nant will offer a mixture of houses and flats and will also feature an extra care scheme to provide a safe and secure environment for older residents.

Melin has been working in partnership with Torfaen council and the Welsh government to fund the 111 homes.

The scheme is being built for Melin Homes by Greenhill Construction and the first phase of homes is due to be completed in spring 2013.

Councillors, representatives from Greenhill, Melin staff and members of the board visited the site to see how work is progressing.

They also witnessed a brick-laying ceremony by Melin chairman Doiran Jones and Cllr Gwyneira Clark.

Mr Jones said: “I was very impressed with the speed in which these properties are going up.

“In no time at all we will be welcoming families into their new homes.”

Mark Gardner, Melin’s chief executive, added: “Once again, Melin is proud to be providing high-quality, homes in Torfaen. After visiting the site, I am delighted with the progress that has been made and I look forward to seeing the finished product.”

If you would like to live in Cae Nant, you can register your interest by visiting nowyourhomes.co.uk or call Melin Homes on 08453 101102.