A NEW £15 million neighbourhood in Accrington has welcomed its first families.

The Grabowska family picked up their keys and moved into a refurbished property in Nuttall Street, at the heart of the Woodnook regeneration project.

They are the first to occupy one of 131 family homes being created by PlaceFirst and Together Housing Group in what is a landmark for the ambitious project.

Originally from Poland, Kristoff and Magda Grabowska have lived in Accrington for over five years.

Along with their three children, they moved into their new home, and were presented with a hamper worth £50.

Head of new business and innovation at PlaceFirst, Martin Ellerby, said: "This is a landmark moment for PlaceFirst and Together Housing Group as we welcome our first customers to Woodnook. Over the next 12 months or so we will see continued regeneration right across this community and the future is looking bright for 2015. We wish Kristoff, Magda and their young family many happy times in their new home."

Ten properties around Woodnook have now been fully refurbished, including one, two, and three bedroom homes.

The next release of homes is due to occur in February 2015, and includes a mix of brand new two, three, and four bedroom homes built within the shell of traditional Victorian terraces.

Martin added: "We believe that the homes we are building set a new benchmark in fair value private rent. Along with our joint venture partners at Together Housing Group, we are not only delivering great homes, but a professional, courteous landlord service for our customers.

“The scale of what we’re doing in Woodnook is transformational and we’re very grateful for the continued support of Hyndburn Council.”

Kevin Ruth, Together Housing Group Deputy Chief Executive, added: “We’re delighted to see the first tenants move into this new development and we hope they’re very happy in their new home.

“This development is as much about people as it is about the regeneration of the area. We hope Kristoff, Magda and their children enjoy their first Christmas in their new home.”