CHELMSFORD MP Simon Burns has welcomed news house prices locally have boomed over the last 12 months.

As reported in last week’s Weekly News, figures from property market analysts Hometrack stated house prices in the city have increased by 6.9 per cent during 2013.

This compares to an average rise of 4.4 per cent around the UK.

The Conservative MP said it was fantastic to hear property values in his constituency are on the rise.

Mr Burns said: “I think it is good news that house prices are increasing.

“This news shows that the economy is recovering and demonstrates that Chelmsford is a desirable place to live.

“We have access to a wide range of amenities and good transport links to London.

“I am also pleased that the Government is providing support to those seeking to get on the property ladder through the Help to Buy scheme.”

The figures were published in the same week banking firm Halifax placed Chelmsford as the tenth most desirable place to live in the UK.