Housing associations have already stepped forward to show an interest in having homes in Carlisle's planned garden village expansion.

Dr Les Tickner, the deputy leader of Carlisle City Council, says it shows there is a "growing confidence" in the city - even at this early stage of the plan, which would radically redraw its boundaries.

The city was successful in being granted funding for garden village status last month.

It means up to 10,000 new homes could now be built in an area to the south of the city known as St Cuthbert’s.

The Carlisle scheme, and 13 others, will have access to a £6m Government fund to support their creation.

The aim is that the development will not simply be an extension of the urban area of the city - but instead will be a distinct new village in its own right.

A report to councillors spells out the interest being shown at this stage.

It also reveals how it could help provide affordable housing - a hot topic in the UK with regular discussion about the make-up of the housing market.

The report states: "The Government’s announcement regarding the successful funding bid for St Cuthbert’s garden village offers significant opportunities for future affordable housing delivery.

"The council has already been contacted by a number of local housing associations that would be keen to be involved."

Dr Les Tickner, the councillor for finances, governance and resources, said: "We were delighted to be successful in our bid and we are pleased that a number of local and national housing associations have already been in touch and are keen to come on board.

"That process is a bit premature at the moment as we have to sort some other things first and make sure we are not favouring any one housing developer.

"The fact that housing associations have already been in touch shows that there is confidence in the city.

"Things are turning and times are changing.

"You only have to drive around the city to see that for sale signs are quickly turning to sold."

The St Cuthbert's area is described as being "to the south of Carlisle, between junction 42 of the M6 and the A595."

The report goes on to say says: "The (garden village) programme is attracting significant and widespread national interest.

"Next steps include putting in place appropriate governance arrangements, exploring delivery options and acting to masterplan the location."

Mr Tickner said: "It’s an exciting time of opportunity for Carlisle."