THE developers behind plans to build on Barton Farm have welcomed to decision to allow 2,000 homes to be constructed on the site.

Mike Emett, development director for Cala Homes, who has been promoting the scheme for more than ten years, said today: “I'm really pleased."

In a statement Cala said: “We welcome the appeal decision and now look forward to continuing to work with the city council and local community to deliver a high-quality development.

“Coming so soon on the back of stimulus packages designed to support the construction industry we feel this decision provides a major boost to the entire house-building sector and reaffirms the coalition's stance on the role the house-building industry can play in supporting a wider economic recovery.

“Local people will benefit greatly from this decision. It will be a major contributor to stimulating the local economy and creating long-term jobs. Furthermore it will make a significant contribution to the chronic shortage of affordable housing, enabling key workers and other local people to live in their own city.

“We will shortly be examining the detailed design for each of the phases in line with the masterplan to ensure that much-needed housing is delivered as soon as possible.”