Council leaders have agreed to pump more than £4m into proposals to build 91 new homes in a Norfolk town.

Norfolk County Council is to join forces with Saffron Housing Trust to build houses in Harleston, south Norfolk.

The homes will be for people who want to live independently but with extra support. 

The plan would see the creation of an independent living scheme made up of 91 new flats, with a mix of 16 two-bed and 75 one-bed flats, on land east of Mendham Lane.

Eastern Daily Press: How the new homes at Harleston could look. Pic: Norfolk County CouncilHow the new homes at Harleston could look. Pic: Norfolk County Council (Image: Norfolk County Council)

At a meeting on Monday (March 6), the council's Conservative-controlled cabinet agreed to put just over £4m into the scheme.

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James Bullion, the council's director of adult social care, said it would save County Hall at least £500,000 each year.

Eastern Daily Press: Bill Borrett, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for adult social services. Pic: Norfolk County CouncilBill Borrett, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for adult social services. Pic: Norfolk County Council (Image: Norfolk County Council)

And Bill Borrett, the council's cabinet member for adult social care, said: "This will make a real difference to people's lives.

"I am really pleased we are delivering on our commitment to help people live independently in their communities for as long as possible."

Independent Living supports people aged over 55, with care provided on-site.