A £40 MILLION plan to knock down 97 dilapidated flats and replace them with 194 new homes is one step closer to going ahead after years of discussions.

It was hoped that after spiralling costs and four years of discussions, Red Kite’s plans to replace the Castlefield ‘star blocks’ off Pettifer Way and Chairborough Road, that Wycombe District Council’s planning committee would finally give the major overhaul the green light before Christmas.

But on Wednesday night, councillors said they were minded to approve the overhaul but needed to see more detailed concept drawings submitted by Red Kite before the final go-ahead is given.

Despite concerns from nearby residents, councillors were largely complimentary of the proposals to overhaul the current run-down block of flats, which were built in the 60s and 70s.

The proposed new buildings would see 88 one-bed flats, 96 two-bed flats, two three-bed houses and eight four-bed houses built, along with cycle parking, play space and open public space.

Eighty per cent of the new homes will be affordable and they will be a mixture for sale and for rent.

At Wednesday’s planning meeting, Cllr Sebert Graham said: “This has been going on for about three years, it is the third we have looked at this application.

“Red Kite have done what we asked and they are making excellent use of the land.”

Cllr David Johncock recognised it was a “difficult site” to work with because it is sloped but said it was a “very good” proposal.

The plans were first mooted back in 2011 when Red Kite took over Wycombe District Council’s housing stock.

Cllr Hugh McCarthy said the plans were “long overdue”.

He said: “The area deserves a significant uplift - it is pretty derelict.”

Cllr Chris Whitehead said he was concerned that the development needed to be more environmentally friendly, adding that he would like to see solar panels added and more electric charging points.

He said: “These homes will be there for 50 years or more and during the next 50 years the world will change significantly. We need to future proof these buildings.”

Councillors unanimously agreed in favour of the plans, but wanted detailed concept drawings - and they gave permission to the head of planning at the council to say yes once they had been received.

Meanwhile, staff at Red Kite said it feels like “Christmas has come early” following the news.

Mark Haines, assistant director - technical, at Red Kite Community Housing, said: “We are really pleased with the decision of the councillors to approve this significant housing scheme.”

“We are mindful of the need for good quality affordable housing in the community and Castlefield has the potential to deliver 194 new homes of which 80 per cent will be affordable.

“We look forward to working with the planners in the new year to finalise plans and take the next step forward.”