THESE are the brand new homes set to replace the decaying Victorian villas that line Liverpool’s Edge Lane.

The bulldozers recently moved in to demolish the boarded-up homes which flank the main thoroughfare into the city.

Liverpool’s planning committee is expected to approve plans for 188 homes tomorrow.

Developer Bellway said it wants to start work on the project, which will take three years to build, as soon as demolition work is completed in around six months.

It forms part of the larger scheme which will see Edge Lane widened to make it into a dual carriageway and improve traffic flows between the city centre and the M62.

Divisional regeneration manager Paul Howard said: “This is a momentous moment for the project. It’s been a long process and we are delighted that it is coming to fruition.”

The plans include 42 flats, 73 duplex apartments, 67 houses, six bungalows and a new park called Gladstone Square.

Mr Howard said the buildings facing on to Edge Lane would predominantly be apartments and flats.

Some will feature roof-top terraces with south facing views towards Wavertree.

He added: “The scheme is aspirational, there’s no doubt about it. It’s a real gateway to the city. Quality has not been compromised in any way.”

The site where the homes will be built is bounded by Edge Lane, Marmaduke Street, Gladstone Road and Durning Road – with Royston Street running through the middle.

Trees will be planted in front of the apartments on the southern side of Edge Lane to create a boulevard atmosphere.