A planning committee has unanimously backed plans to build affordable homes on the site of a former care centre.

Cornwall Council had applied for permission to build 52 homes on the site of the former Murdoch and Trevithick Centre in Drump Road, Redruth.

All of the homes will be affordable with a 50/50 split between shared ownership and affordable rent.

The council’s west sub-area planning committee yesterday agreed unanimously to approve planning consent.

The committee heard that there was a high need for affordable homes in the area and that the development would provide “much needed affordable housing for the community”.

Under the plans there will be nine one-bedroom flats, two one-bedroom bungalows, 19 two-bedroom houses, 18 three-bedroom houses, three four-bedroom homes and one five-bedroom house.

One of the bungalows is planned to be wheelchair accessible.

The majority of the properties would be two-storey and some will be three storey.

Changes had been made to the plans following concerns made by residents, with an alteration to the layout improving it for pedestrians and parking.

The applicant also agreed to provide street lighting for a footpath to address concerns about antisocial behaviour.

The committee heard that there would be public open space provided on the site and it would provide “quality homes” for local people.

The committee voted unanimously to grant planning permission.