A NEW housing estate where streets have Olympic-themed names was opened on the day London 2012 kicked off.

Eric Pickles, secretary of state for communities and local government, cut the ribbon at Rosewood in Mill Road, Colchester on Friday.

Work has started on the first 248 homes at the former Severalls Hospital site. In total, 1,500 homes will be built.

The Government’s decision to name the roads after the Olympics, including Flame Way, Podium Close and Courage Drive, sparked controversy earlier this year.

Myland Community Council wanted to give streets names with local connections.

Colchester MP Sir Bob Russell, who questioned the naming of the roads earlier this year, said: “People in 20, 40 or 60 years will know the estate was developed when the Olympics came to London.”

Mr Pickles was asked about another 1,600 homes set to be built in Mile End in the next 15 years.

Residents have raised concerns the roads will not cope with increased traffic.

Mr Pickles said: “I have to look at everything with an open mind.”