PLANS for new council houses in York are being unveiled today.

A project in Fenwick Street, near Bishopthorpe Road, will see eight apartments aimed at older tenants who want to downsize from larger homes being created.

The site was outlined in City of York Council’s five-year housing plan, approved last April.

Up to 70 new homes are intended to be built by summer 2015, using £6 million from the council’s housing revenue account and £1 million from developer contributions.

A consultation on the Fenwick Street proposals will be held between 4.30pm and 7pm today at Scarcroft Primary School, with housing strategy officials and the scheme’s architect available to answer questions.

Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing said: “Offering attractive alternatives for people who no longer need a larger home means we can free more properties suitable for growing families and offer a decent, affordable home to those in desperate housing need.”

A planning application will be submitted next month, allowing residents to formally comment, and more information is available by emailing michael.jones@york.gov.uk or by phoning 01904 551339.