Construction has begun on a vacant lot next to Ashmont Station this week after the property was purchased in late September by Dorchester-based developer Doug George, who purchased the property for $4.75 million. The property at 1970 Dorchester Ave. is permitted for 56 apartments and two commercial spaces.

“I was raised in Dorchester and have lived here more than 50 years,” George said. “People want to live in Dorchester now. The Red Line is key here and the Red Line is a draw. They’ve done a really good job in that stretch of Ashmont. There’s a lot happening there and it’s a very busy urban area. The site offers a lot.”

George predicted a 15-to-18-month construction period. The first concrete pour was on Monday.

The developer said he planned to name the building The Frances at Ashmont, a nod to his 88-year-old mother who still lives in a Dorchester three-decker.

The property was previously owned by One Beale Street LLC, which is controlled by Brendan Feeney and Tim Long. Another mixed-use, five-story apartment building across the street, at 1943 Dorchester Ave., just completed construction and is currently leasing.