The transformation of a derelict former school in Newcastle into a new housing estate could get the green light this week.
Wharrier Street Primary School, in Walker, was torn down in 2013 after it merged with St Anthony's C of E Primary to form the new Central Walker Church of England Primary.
But after years of the site laying undeveloped, plans could finally be approved this Friday for 36 affordable rent houses to be built there.
Newcastle City Council's planning committee is expected to formally express its support for the project on Friday, and grant planning permission subject to a legal agreement being reached between the council and developer Places for People.
The proposed estate would comprise a mixture of two, three and four bedroom properties including family houses and some bungalows.
The application states: "The proposed residential development, located within a sustainable neighbourhood, would make a positive contribution to the community; would enhance the immediate environment; would permit full accessibility; would provide an appropriate addition to the existing housing stock; and through appropriate layout, would offer natural surveillance, enhanced personal safety, security of the property and reduce opportunities for crime.
"The aim of this development is to aid in the regeneration of the neighbourhood, and as well as providing much needed affordable homes, provide a well overlooked extension to the footpath linking Wharrier Street with the proposed new Chalfont Road site, new Central Walker Primary School and Walker Road beyond."
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Places for People has said that it had hoped to have begun construction last month, with the building work completed by March 2020.
The developer added: "The proposed development has maximised opportunities to make best use of this derelict brownfield site.
"The proposed development will promote all the benefits of its sustainable location as an extension to the existing residential community, reinforcing a sense of place."
No objections have been lodged against the plans, ahead of the planning committee meeting on Friday morning.
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