FAMILIES moving into new homes on an estate in Wallingford should be given a warm welcome, according to town mayor Lynda Atkins.

Developer Lightwood Property received planning permission to build on the site near the centre of Wallingford in October.

Now, the first houses in the 134-home complex, are expected to go up for sale in the next few months.

The estate, which is being built on the site of a former Habitat distribution centre, has now been bought by developer David Wilson Homes.

Show houses on the estate are due to be ready for viewing will be ready for viewing on Saturday.

The development, called The Maltings, will have 94 homes – a mixture of three- and four-bedroom houses, and two-bedroom flats. The remaining homes will be in a 40-unit care complex for people aged 55 or over.

The three and four-bedroom houses will go for £420,000 upwards.

David Wilson Homes sales director Rob Allen, said: “We worked closely with the local community in planning this new development on an old warehouse site and we’re proud to be creating something that will enhance the local area for years to come.”

The Maltings has received a mixed reception.

Wallingford Town Council was against using the land for housing, favouring employment use. Ms Atkins, a town and county councillor, said: “It’s no secret that the town council thought that it was not a good idea for the land to be used for housing.

“That said, we have got new housing and we will be pleased to have our new residents. Wallingford is a special place and is very welcoming – I’m sure that welcome will be extended to new residents.”

The 134-home development comes as plans are being finalised for a 555-home complex on Slade End Farm.

Mrs Atkins added: “I think there can be issues with developments of 100 homes, as they can be too small to justify a new school or health centre but these services may struggle to cope.

“Luckily, the primary schools in Wallingford are able to cope with expanding for this development.

“Slade End Farm is the right size as new schools will be made for the population.”