HELP is at hand for first-time buyers wanting to put their foot on the bottom rung of the property ladder in Morecambe.

A new scheme has been launched to enable people to get into the housing market.

Beech Housing Association is behind a shared ownership scheme which aims to make 28 properties in Morecambe available to buy within the next year.

All are large fully refurbished Victiorian terraces in the West End and Poulton areas.

The three-storey homes with original features all have three bedrooms, lounge, dining room and newly fitted kitchen, cellar and large back patio. All are suitable for families.

The project means local buyers struggling to find a property in the area can get hold of a home for as little as £56,000 through shared ownership.

First time buyers can purchase a share of their home and pay rent on the remainder - enabling them to move onto the property ladder immediately.

Buyers can take as little as a 50 per cent share in the property, with prices ranging from £56,000 to £58,000 plus a weekly rent.

Steve Matthews, strategic housing manager and project director of West End Regeneration at Lancaster City Council says: "With house prices what they are, first time buyers need all the help they can get. We have worked with Beech Housing ciation to develop a scheme which will be a real asset to Morecambe.

"Now, with developers such as Urban Splash and English Partnerships also investing in the area, the outlook for the housing market is good and it is important that we help local young people get onto the ladder now."

The news follows a recent Government announcement for plans for a shared equity scheme designed to help young people expected to roll out after April 2006.

Anyone interested in finding out more can contact the sales team on 01942-608 715 or email margaret. weybourne@adactus-group.com.