A DERELICT office building has been transformed to provide new homes in the centre of Basingstoke.

The empty Brook House office building in Alencon Link was branded an eyesore as it was a prominent feature on the route to town.

Now, thanks to a Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council land deal, the building has been demolished and replaced with 30 new high specification apartments, with rooftop communal gardens.

The new build has been constructed by local housing developer Bewley Homes PLC, and is soon set for completion.

As part of the deal between the borough council and Bewley Homes, the development situated near to the town’s train station, will bring in ground lease rental income to help the council balance its budget at a time of reducing resources as it will remain the land-owner.

Six of the apartments at the new development will be available for local people, who are looking to get a foot on the property ladder, to buy at a discounted rate.

Cabinet member for finance and resources at the borough council, Councillor John Izett said the development will bring much needed high-quality homes into the borough.

Cllr Izett said: “The development is a very welcome replacement for the old Brook House building which had been unoccupied and an eyesore for many years. It is a superb location at a key gateway to the town centre and close to the train station, shops and attractions.”

Managing director at Bewley Homes Andrew Brooks said: “Working closely with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has meant we have helped change the landscape of the town and provided a number of residents with the opportunity to own their own home.”