Work to convert a former sports ground into a housing estate is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

And the developer says queues are expected today when the first batch of properties in Wentworth Gardens, Eaton, near Norwich, go on sale. They say 1,700 people have registered an interest in purchasing the 78 properties, which include houses, bungalows and apartments.

Norwich City Council awarded Persimmon Homes permission to build on the former civil service sports ground in November 2009.

At least 23 of the properties at the 4.27-hectare site have to be classed as affordable housing.

Andy Fuller, managing director of Charles Church Anglia and Persimmon Homes Anglia, work was progressing well with all the roads built and foundations in place.

He said the aim to have the first 50pc of houses sold and with people living in them by June. The remainder is expected to be completed by the end of 2012.

Mr Fuller said: 'We've had absolutely phenomenal interest. We've got 1,700 people that registered for the site and had 200 visitors last weekend. We are anticipating being able to sell the site without needing to advertise.

'It shows with the right approach in the right location you can sell in massive numbers and buck the trend. There's a pent-up demand for new build in other areas of East Anglia.'

Gerald Cooke, of the Eaton Village Residents' Association, said there would be an increase in traffic in the area but there more positive thoughts than negative about the project.

Mr Cooke said: 'About a third of the land will be left as open space with children's play areas. I think generally now we are of the opinion it's good to have it developed, cleaned up and kept tidy.'

Meanwhile, planners have recommended that proposals for 40 properties in the Greater Norwich area should be given the go-ahead. Applicant Taylor Wimpey has developed plans for the new houses east of Spixworth Road, Old Catton. Broadland District Council's planning committee will make a decision on Wednesday.

Are you embarking on a building project? Call Evening News reporter Richard Wheeler on 01603 772474 or email richard.wheeler@archant.co.uk