Pictured above: Walsall councilor Ron Carpenter and Carole Wildman, whg Director of Regeneration and Development

A £450,000 whg development of affordable apartments for people aged over 55 is taking shape in Rushall.

Aldridge-based Bullock Construction has just started building work on the low-rise complex of four flats for rent in New Street.

The two-bedroom homes will be fitted with features to make them easily accessible for less mobile residents, including walk-in showers on the ground floor and low-level baths in the first-floor apartments.

They will also be extremely well insulated to keep in the heat, save energy and cut residents' utility bills, meeting the Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3.

Bedsits previously on the site were demolished three years ago after being classed as unsuitable for modern housing needs.

whg Development Officer Shirley Gooch said: "There is a need for quality, affordable housing for this age group in Rushall and this development not only helps meet this need it also makes excellent use of this very suitable site.

"In addition to building an attractive property, there will be pleasant landscaping and a communal garden area for residents to enjoy."

Due to be completed in December, the development has been supported by Walsall Council.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, Walsall Council's deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, said: "I welcome the start of work on this site as this development is an excellent use of what has been derelict land for some time.

"It will help meet the very real need for affordable housing in the borough and offer tailored accommodation suitable for the over-55 age group."

The Rushall development follows the start of construction work on the first phase of whg's canalside development in Brownhills - 47 two-bedroom apartments in High Street, alongside Wyrley & Essington Canal.