A DEVELOPMENT of more than 100 new houses in north Dorset is taking shape with home-hunters now able to purchase properties.

Corallian Heights will comprise of 114 new homes, built by Bellway, on a 9.5-acre site next to the ground of Sturminster United Football Club.

Construction got underway in August after detailed proposals were approved by Dorset Council last April.

The development - named after the Corallian rock formations found along the Dorset coastline - will consist of 85 houses for private sale alongside 29 affordable homes made available to local people through shared ownership or low-cost rental.

Kim Caldwell, Sales Director at Bellway Wessex, said: “Corallian Heights has proved to be a very popular development and the launch (in January) was a great success in terms of visitors enquiring into our homes here.

“We have now released the first selection of new homes at the site onto the market. There is currently a choice of two, three and four-bedroom properties.”

Bellway will be investing nearly £1.6million into services and facilities throughout Sturminster Newton as part of the development.

The investment includes £690,000 towards primary and secondary schools, £220,000 to the Honeymead Lane Education and Leisure Hub and more than £150,000 towards training and all-weather sports pitches. Further financial contributions will be committed for sustainable transport, allotments, libraries and healthcare.

Bellway is also planting new trees to enhance the existing woodland and hedgerow to the north of the site and creating a new landscaped recreational trail through the area. A new children’s play area will also be installed.