An assembly member has called for more affordable housing for local people living in a village on the north Wales border.

Rossett, which is situated between Wrexham and Chester, has seen property prices soar in the past 18 months.

Eleanor Burnham wants less expensive housing

Eleanor Burnham AM is so concerned about the situation she has written to the Inspector of the Unitary Development Plan( UDP) to ask for his intervention.

She said the situation has become extremely difficult.

"Most of us would agree that we need a mix of housing in every area, otherwise people who are working in the local community may be forced to move out."

The Liberal Democrat's concerns have come to light following plans by a local developer to build �200,000 houses in the village.

Rising house prices

The regional AM is concerned that Rossett is perceived as an elitist area and believes an element of less expensive housing would lead to a more inclusive community.

"You get a better reception from local people if you include low cost social housing.

"There is no social housing at all in Rossett."

Wrexham estate agents Kent Jones said Rossett has always proved popular because it was close to Chester.

Rossett is a picturesque village

However, rising house prices has meant many first time buyers are finding it difficult to afford accommodation in the village.

A spokeswoman for the firm said: "We have just sold a three bedroom detached house in Rossett for �169,950."

She added: "It is very expensive but people are paying to be near Chester.

"Many homeowners are even selling their property's with Chester letting agents so they can cash in on Chester prices."

Mrs Burnham said she wants to ensure that any further residential developments include cheaper housing.

"Rossett is ripe for re-development and we need to develop according to local people's needs," she said.