Plans for the first phase of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Athletes' Village have received the green light from the local authority.

Glasgow City Council has approved the construction of 700 homes to be used by athletes during the games before being turned into a new neighbourhood for the city's east end in legacy mode. The City Legacy Consortium - comprising contractors Mactaggart and Mickel; CCG; Cruden; and W H Malcolm - is behind the proposals for the 32.5-hectare (80.3-acre) site in Dalmarnock.

During the 2014 Games, the Athletes' Village will offer accommodation for 6,500 competitors and officials before providing 304 private homes and 400 homes for rent, as well as a 120-bed care home. Temporary facilities will also be removed following the Games to allow for further development at the site.

Council deputy leader Archie Graham said: "The Athletes' Village is going to be a huge development that will help transform the east end of the city. "It will be one of the most important elements of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games - and one of the most recognisable aspects of the legacy."

City Legacy Consortium spokesperson Ed Monaghan added: "We are focussed on transforming the area to become a much sought-after riverside residential location and showcasing the Athletes' Village as the best in contemporary and sustainable design."