STYLISH new affordable apartments opposite Chester Railway Station are up for grabs which can only be bought or rented by local people.

Nine homes in the Post House on Station Road have been reserved just a day after opening its doors.

The Post House, a conversion of the former Royal Mail sorting office which was once a YMCA, was developed by social housing group Plus Dane at a cost of £4.5m.

To apply for a home, you need to currently live, work, or have family living in Chester, and be in employment.

The homes are offered by HomesHub, which is part of Plus Dane Group and the Government’s affordable housing agent for Cheshire.

HomesHub marketing co-ordinator Jo Morfee said: “There’s been so much interest in these properties which is hardly surprising as they are very affordable and in an ideal location, right next to the station and just 10 minutes walk from the centre of town.

“There is an urgent need for affordable housing in Chester, so to be able to offer these stunning apartments to local people is hugely satisfying. However, they are going fast so I would encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Under the Government’s HomeBuy scheme, customers can take advantage of shared ownership or rent-to-buy options.

Shared ownership allows buyers to buy a share of between 25% and 75% in the property and rent on the share they don’t own, with the opportunity to eventually own 100%.

Rent to buy allows customers to pay a low monthly rent for five years while they save up to buy although there is no obligation to buy.

Prices for the one and two-bedroomed apartments start at £115,000 with rental options starting at £440.