TWO families are being given the chance to live like the Jetsons in a home of the future.

Work starts next month to build the futuristic homes in Roscoe Road, Billingham, Cleveland.

The homes, which will be built to a modern design, will aim to provide practical and flexible accommodation that can respond to modern lifestyles.

They will include ultra-efficient insulation made from recycled newsprint, under-floor heating to eliminate the need for radiators, and a ventilation system which warms the house with reclaimed heat in the winter and circulates fresh air in the summer.

There will also be a free supply of water for toilets and the garden through recycled rainwater, and triple-glazed windows to provide insulation.

The houses are being built by the Tees Valley Housing Group, which is looking for two groups, or families, to test them out.

Alison Thain, chief executive of the 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."

The houses, a three-bedroom and four-bedroom, will cost £200,000 to build, and are designed for five and six people.

One will be heated with the latest technology gas boiler, the other by a new generation electric heater, although there will be little need for heating because of the superior insulation.

The residents, who will be able to rent the new homes and move in by August, will be asked to test how efficient and comfortable the houses are.

As well as providing scientific results on the homes, the residents will be able to give personal insights into the success of the development.

Roland Holmes-Smith, architect project leader, said: "This is one of the most exciting projects we are working on, as it gives us an opportunity to take a new look at the design of family homes and to incorporate features which are likely to be commonplace in the years ahead.

"More importantly, there is the opportunity for the houses to be test-driven by real families, so the whole team can benefit from their feedback, which could help to shape future projects around the country."

Anyone interested in the scheme should contact (01642) 261100