More high quality affordable housing is coming to the area thanks to new council plans.

North Ayrshire Council gave the green light this week to an ambitious £45 million plan to build an extra 250 council houses.

The council Cabinet aim to increase affordable housing provision as well as 'provide a shot in the arm for the North Ayrshire economy'.

The local authority is currently on target to deliver 500 new homes over the 10-year period 2011-2021.

However, Cabinet members agreed to increase that target by expanding the programme to deliver an additional 250 houses within the next five years.

Council Leader Joe Cullinane said: “This is a real statement of intent from the council that we want to invest in our residents and their future.

“We are all aware that many people have been priced out of the housing market so we wanted to go the extra mile to give more people the opportunity to live in a high-quality and, most importantly, affordable home.

“These new properties will provide accommodation to tenants with a range of needs, including older people and families with complex requirements.

“In addition to reducing waiting lists, this ambitious move will also make a significant contribution to the local economy through investment and jobs.”

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, Cabinet member for Place, said: “This is a big commitment from the council but we’re determined to play our part in helping to reverse the decline in the availability of social housing.

“Our aim is for this house-building programme to help those who are having to rent privately as they wait for a council property to become available while also helping to tackle homelessness in our area.”