A futuristic community resource centre is now taking shape at the Westoe Crown Village.

The village will be the crowning glory of George Wimpey's award-winning housing development.

When complete, the centre will include nine retail units, 20 apartments and a community resource centre for use by the whole Westoe community.

And as part of its commitment to sustainability, the house builder is installing a bio-mass central heating system in the new community resource centre. This will use wood pellets to heat part of the building, thereby reducing carbon emissions.

Work is due to finish by spring next year, with the shops expected to be open for business by the summer.

George Wimpey North East of England development manager, John Foster, said: "The shops and community centre will take pride of place
alongside Westoe Primary School and the village green, providing a real heart to the village and nurturing the already existing sense of community.

"Since we began building homes here in 2002, we've witnessed Westoe Crown Village grow and mature into a thriving and peaceful new neighbourhood in a superb location, and it's a joy to be able to provide a village centre that will serve generations of Westoe residents for years to come."

With its hall, space for a café, an office and meeting rooms, it is anticipated the new community resource centre will serve as a facility for local clubs, societies and play groups. The venue will also be made available for hire for private parties and events.

Mr Foster added: "The community resource centre will belong to the residents of Westoe Crown Village, but will be used by the wider Westoe community as a whole.

"It's also intended the new facility will be run by a management company of residents. Because of its aims and objectives it is hoped that this company will eventually achieve charitable status."

The house builder has also placed a key emphasis on disabled access during the planning of the new village centre.

The centre will be a barrier-free area, with dropped kerbs and ramp access, and with the community resource centre accessible to wheelchairs.

Over the past five years, the historic site of the former Westoe Colliery has been transformed into a thriving, eco-friendly community.

The site includes 669 homes on a 17-hectare site with a broad mix of apartments and two and three storey homes.

George Wimpey has released the final phase of the homes at Westoe Crown Village. To find out more, call 497 5747.