A SENSE of excitement has filled business owners in Wantage now people have begun to move into the St Mary’s development.

All 17 properties offered by Thames Valley Housing (TVH) in its first round of sales at the former St Mary’s School site in Newbury Street have gone.

There are 195 properties at the site, and TVH caused controversy in November by increasing the amount of social homes from 65 to 97, without consulting residents. It blamed the recession for the change.

Town mayor Patrick O’Leary and councillors visited the site to see the completed homes and to talk to residents.

Mr O’Leary said: “This development provides much-needed affordable housing to the area and to people who would otherwise not be able to afford a home of their own.

“There are so many financial pressures on young people so it is nice to see them being given a helping hand.

“Twelve months ago, we were worried about the future of many of the shops in Wantage town centre. This development could attract up to 400 people into the area and this has created a sense of excitement among local businesses.”

The second phase of sales is due to open in spring.

Niki Turner, assistant director of sales and marketing at TVH, said: “We are delighted that members of the local council were able to come and visit St Mary’s and see how the development is helping young people in the local area get on the property ladder.”