COMMUNITY councillors have thrown their weight behind plans for more than 25 affordable homes on the edge of Dunbar town centre.

Plans for 27 new flats in the grounds of a former manse were welcomed by the group at their recent meeting.

The proposals are the third phase of a development on the site, with 18 flats, immediately to the east, already in place.

A further set of plans to transform the former manse at 9 Bayswell Road, which was previously home to CrossReach – which offers care to people of all ages – into four apartments also has the green light.

Pippa Swan, chairwoman of Dunbar Community Council, said: “We all recognise we need houses that are financially accessible to people.

“I think the development beside it is very attractive and if it is along those lines then it will be a real asset.

“Plainly, the CrossReach building itself is past its useful time as a single house.”

The latest proposals show a courtyard development made up of four separate buildings, with an amenity space at the heart of the site.

The 27 new properties would be spread across the four buildings, which would be made up of three storeys.

Three of the flats would be one-bedroom properties, with the remaining 24 flats featuring two bedrooms, which would be split into three different styles.

Mrs Swan was joined by fellow community councillors in backing the latest scheme from Whiteadder Developments Ltd.

The chairwoman added: “The more people who live within walking distance of the butcher and baker, the more trade on High Street.”

A planning statement included within the new application said the proposals offered “a considered and exciting response offering considerable planning good to the area”.

It added: “To conclude, this proposal responds to the shortage of affordable housing and provides 27 new apartments which are conveniently located in close proximity to Dunbar town centre.”