A major new housing estate in Warwick could have even more affordable homes if the plans are backed by Warwick District Council.

Vistry Partnerships has applied for permission to designate a further 26 houses for affordable homes at its Gallows Hill development.

The 425-house estate was first given the green light by the district council in 2015, and works are "well advanced" on site.

Originally the development was to be two fifths affordable housing, but the mix will increase to nearly 47 per cent if the council allows this change to the plans.

The extra 26 homes will be designated for first homes buyers.

This will mean that they have to have a minimum discount of 30 per cent from their market value and cannot be sold for more than £250,000 (outside London).

The government's first homes scheme also states that these properties can only be sold to people who fit the eligibility criteria.

A council report recommended that the change to the plans be approved.

It said: "The proposal would result in an increase over and above the required standard of 40 per cent affordable housing provision and would also allow for an additional route for the residents of the district to acquire an affordable property.

"An increase in the provision of affordable housing within the district is to be welcomed and this scheme will secure these units through the appropriate legal agreement."

Adding: "The changes have the agreement and full support of the Warwick District Council housing team who are working with the applicants to deliver the first homes and as such, there is no objection from officers."

WDC's planning committee will discuss the plans on Wednesday (June 22) night.