FIRST-time buyers have snapped up almost all newly- released homes at a new Llandudno Junction development, in just 30 minutes.

Beech Developments was inundated with calls and emails from local families when they released the plots on Thursday February 28, at Llys Marl. Fourteen of the 18 have been reserved and only four remain.

North Wales Pioneer: The Conwy type house at Llys MarlThe Conwy type house at Llys Marl

Matthew Gilmartin, managing director of Beech Developments said: "The level of demand for homes in Conwy is certainly exemplified in the speed of reservations. Nearly all were first time buyers and we've been pleased to see so many happy faces."

The scheme, which sits at the junction of A470 and Marl Lane, has a total of 52 two, three and four bedroom homes. It also includes green spaces, and a children's play area. Prices start from £108,000.

Ryan and Sam McConnell have been renting for the past seven years in Llandudno and have been searching for more than three years for a suitable property. Retail worker Sam, 27 and Llanrhos born husband Ryan, have reserved a Chirk type property at Llys Marl.

Sam said: "It's been really hard to try and find somewhere that has everything we need without it being out of our price range. When we saw the new properties it was just brilliant and it was a huge bonus with Help to Buy, Wales. There is no way we would be able to afford a three bed semi detached house without it.

For those unable to secure a plot at Llys Marl, 110 homes will soon be built at High Pastures, Deganwy, just a short distance away.

Matthew added: "Despite opposition to our developments in the Marl ward, demand is extremely high for new homes there. Many families are living in substandard housing and residents are trapped in the renting cycle, which will continue if we don't bring new homes into Conwy. We are proud that after 24 years as a Welsh developer, we can help to fulfil the growing need for sustainable homes."