THE first steps have been taken towards building new kinds of homes on Teesside.

Two breathing wall timber frames have been dropped into place at the houses, which are being developed using the latest developments in environmental technology.

Tees Valley Housing Group (TVHG) has chosen one of its schemes in Billingham as the site to try the futuristic houses, which will provide an insight into the way homes will be built in the future.

Unlike conventional houses, the timber frame is assembled off-site and dropped into place by a crane.

TVHG is now looking for two families or groups of residents to live in the houses,, which are due to be completed at the end of November.

They will play a vital role in testing how efficient and comfortable the new homes are.

They will not just be involved in monitoring the results, but will be able to give unique perspectives on the success of the development.

The £200,000 scheme, which TVHG is funding from its own resources, features one three bedroom house and one four bedroom house, designed for five and six people respectively.

Alison Thain, chief executive of Tees Valley Housing Group, said: "The residents will have a chance to experience a unique living environment in the new development.

"As housing providers we have a responsibility to develop and introduce new methods into the industry.

"The home of the future will be radically different to those most of us live in today, so it will be a great opportunity to help shape the future of homes on Teesside and further afield."

Features of the homes include under floor heating and triple glazed windows.