An old ambulance depot is set to be torn down to make room for 39 local authority dwellings.

The demolition work at the Ifield Road location in Crawley should commence shortly.

Planning applications for the development were initially filed in 2020 but encountered postponements stemming from water neutrality regulations.

The scheme marks the inaugural major affordable housing initiative within the district to advance to the building phase.

The project will comprise 37 units with two bedrooms and a pair of one-bedroom flats housed within a six-floor structure bordering protected woodland.

Every property will be offered to qualified individuals on the council’s housing waiting list at reduced rental rates.

Cllr Michael Jones expressed enthusiasm about the imminent commencement of building work on the development, emphasising the critical need for new council housing to provide families with stable, affordable living options. He noted this particular site represents the first in a considerable period to move forward, despite navigating substantial obstacles.

The local authority intends to develop 540 council homes in upcoming years, predominantly on previously developed urban land.

In collaboration with regional developer Tkei (Crawley) Ltd and construction firm Amarta, the project leverages an approach designed to ensure robust oversight and bolster the local construction sector. Potential residents must demonstrate a minimum five-year connection to the area, adhering to the council’s strict allocation guidelines.

Construction is scheduled to kick off in early 2026, with full project completion targeted for late 2027. Planning records confirm the site ceased functioning as an ambulance station approximately eight years ago.