Disused piece of land off Newark Road, Ollerton, used for seven new environmentally-friendly and affordable homes

Seven two-bedroom homes are taking shape on a piece of land that has been empty for more than 30 years.

The disused piece of land off Newark Road, Ollerton, was recently used by a few caravans but will soon be home to environmentally-friendly and affordable housing.

The homes, which back on to Ollerton Pit woods, aim to be carbon-positive — producing more energy than consumption.

Special batteries will be installed to store the excess solar-generated power for later use.

It is the first project Nottingham Community Housing Association has completed from start to finish — from idea, design, through to build and landscaping — and the first stage of the NCHA Build project, part of its Fit For 50 programme as it approaches its 50th anniversary.

NCHA will use this site to pilot alternative energy installations to help make future homes sustainable with reduced energy costs for residents.

Allan Fisher, director of development and assets, said: “This site is an important step in our long-held vision of delivering new-build housing, in-house, from start to finish.

”