AFFORDABLE eco-homes in Lakeside were visited by a Government minister and a Norwegian MP.

Housing minister Yvette Cooper, Trygve Magnus Slagsvod-Vedum, from Norway, and Redditch MP Jacqui Smith were given a tour by residents who were involved in helping Redditch Co-operative Homes design the properties.

The Sillins Avenue homes were constructed using pre-fabricated timber panels from Norway and Ms Cooper said they were an example of how innovation and community involvement could deliver affordable and eco-friendly homes.

"This development breaks new ground nationally in both its environmental credentials and the fact that the project has been driven forward by local people working together as a co-operative," she added.

A total of 36 eco-friendly new homes are being developed at Sillins Avenue and Farm Road.

Costing £5 million to build, the homes' construction produced less than half the carbon emissions of a traditionally built house and they will cost around 50 per cent less to run.

A high level of insulation provides increased energy efficiency and a low environmental impact.

Sillins Avenue resident Anne Harborne said: "It was great to be involved from the outset and I feel a real sense of pride knowing I was part of the project. It's really fantastic housing and I'm pleased to be doing my bit for the environment."

The homes are being developed by Accord Housing Association for Redditch Co-operative Homes in partnership with Norwegian company Heldalm Anebyhus and Redditch Council, with Housing Corporation funding.