A NEW development of 12 properties at St Giles on the Heath was officially opened last Thursday, with new residents there to see the ribbon cut.

The eight affordable rented and four open market properties on land adjoining the playing field were developed by Southwestern Housing Society, working in association with Plymouth contractors Classic Builders.

Eric Bunting, contracts manager at Classic Builders, said: "What we wanted to do is try and be part of the community.

"We provided a bit of landscaping the school wanted free of charge. There were some schools visits where they came and looked at the construction. We supported the local newsletter with an advert.

"Wherever possible we employed local people."

Councillors and some of the new residents looking forward to moving in went along to the official opening — with all of the eight affordable rented properties taken.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.