Work on a gateway development next to Petersfield train station should begin before Christmas in boost for people seeking affordable housing.

The unoccupied warehouse and former Petersfield Tools & Fixings shop at the top end of Lavant Street has been acquired by housing provider Abri.

Planning permission has been granted for 34 flats in two blocks with architects and designers 6a Vision getting the nod from the South Downs National Park Authority last summer.

The deal with Abri means half those one and two-bedroom flats will be for social rent with the firm using its own funding alongside cash from Homes England to make the homes affordable.

The need for more affordable housing in East Hampshire is high with more than 1,500 on the waiting list.

And while 17 will barely make a dent in that figure, the provision will certainly help locally while it’s part of a greater overall commitment by the firm to provide 10,000 new affordable homes.

“The newly acquired site is ideally positioned to offer good quality and affordable homes in the heart of Petersfield,” said Fergus Cruikshank, head of land and planning at Abri.

“We look forward to working in partnership and progressing the homes with 6a Vision to create a well-connected and thriving community.”

The development will include sustainable features to help lower running costs and carbon emissions with solar panels, landscaped courtyards and green roofs on certain external areas to encourage flora and fauna to grow and aid biodiversity.

“Delivering this highly sustainable residential housing scheme for Abri is a significant milestone for us,” said Peter J Noë, construction director at 6a Vision Homes.

“The need for quality, affordable homes in the local community is more important than ever, and we’re proud to play a role in addressing this demand right here in Petersfield.”