Building work on the second phase of a 283 home development has begun.

Braintree Council chairman Vanessa Santomauro was given the honour of starting groundworks for the new St Andrew's Gate estate off Oak Road, Halstead.

The development will be made up of 100 new houses, which will be built on land directly next to Bloor Homes' 183 home estate, Oakwood Hill.

David Wilson will be in charge of completing work on St Andrew's Gate and the developer says the building phase will see 200 new jobs created.

Managing director Mark Cotes said: “We are very excited to be starting work on St Andrew’s Gate, and delighted to have councillor Santomauro on site to cut the sod.

"Alongside building new homes, we will also be investing in the local area so the residents of Halstead will feel the benefits."

When completed, St Andrew's Gate will be made up of a mix of three, four and five bedroom homes. The new houses are now sale with Scott Maddison Estate Agents, in Halstead High Street.

After marking the start of construction, councillor Santomauro said: "It was a privilege to mark the start of this development and I hope those moving into these homes once built will be very happy in our district.

"Housing is much needed locally with people living longer and wishing to live close to friends and family, it’s important to note that this site will offer some affordable housing for residents too.”

For more information about the homes at St Andrew’s Gate call 0844 811 3888.