CONTROVERSIAL plans for affordable housing in Langley are going ahead - but villagers were NOT out in force to cheer on the ground-breaking ceremony last week.

Members of the Langley Residents' Association had appealed against the plans for housing at Mill Fold on Cockall Lane. But Mayor of Macclesfield, Councillor Norman Edwards, brandished a drill and made the first mark on the site.

Although the development will secure a future for the younger generation to remain in the community, the plans have disappointed the village whose population - approximately 400 - mostly vigorously resisted the plans.

Residents even complained to the local government ombudsman in an attempt to reverse the decision - but the council was cleared of any wrongdoing.

Villagers claimed the report used to support the application was "misrepresented" but their hopes of a reversal were dashed, which means half of the stated requirement for the entire borough of Macclesfield will be built in the village.

Coun Hilda Gaddum, who chaired the original planning meeting, said: "While I did believe that 44 houses at one time was too many, long term, I believe it should be very good news for the local community.

"They will now be available on short-term equity for the parish of Sutton and adjoining rural wards so if young people are trying to get their foot on the property ladder, it will allow the next generation to stay in the area."

The new Dane Housing development is being built on a brownfield area - formerly the Rieter Scragg silk dyeing and textile manufacturing factory.

Dane Housing's chief executive, Anne Ward, said: "I am delighted that in this area of so little affordable housing, Dane Housing and its partners have been able to play a proactive part in providing this desirable development for local people, while at the same time regenerating the area in a way that is sympathetic to the rural environment.

"This will be a considerable improvement for the surrounding area."

House builder, Morris Homes, is contracted to build the scheme - comprising entirely of affordable homes, including 29 houses for shared ownership sale and 15 houses for affordable rent.

The scheme has been the result of a partnership between Dane Housing, the Housing Corporation, Macclesfield Borough Council and Morris Homes, working together to achieve affordable homes in "high priced" Cheshire villages. Macclesfield Borough Council and Langley Parish Council will be involved in nominating tenants and purchasers for all the homes, which should be nearing completion in July 2007.

The 29 shared ownership homes will be available from £72,500 for a 50 per cent share. Contact Sally Watson, Dane Housing sales advisor, on 01260 288206, or freephone 0500 026079.