THURROCK Council has handed over the keys to 29 new council homes in Grays.

Alma Court is an award-winning development that has transformed the former Tops Club site in Grays, providing social housing that is sustainable and fitted out to a top specification with generous space standards for residents to enjoy.

Thurrock Council's cabinet member for housing, Cllr Barry Johnson, said: "The Alma Court development has provided 29 much-needed council homes for Thurrock residents that would give any private development a run for its money.

"These new homes are built to the highest specification and are sustainable, safe and spacious. Everyone should have a good quality home and the council will continue to invest in new council homes for our residents."

The scheme, recently crowned winner of 'Housing Schemes under 50 homes' category at the Housing Essex Excellence Awards, includes 15 two-bedroom flats, eight one-bedroom flats and six three-bedroom maisonettes. There is also a children's playground.

Cllr Johnson, added: "Work is also progressing well with the construction of 53 new homes in Chadwell St Mary and 35 in Tilbury as part of our investment in new council homes for affordable rent for those on the borough's housing register".