A NUMBER of refugees from Afghanistan look set to be housed in Thurrock in the near future, but at no cost to the local council, it has been reported tonight (Wednesday, 8 September).

In his report to Thurrock Council's cabinet this evening, finance portfolio holder Cllr Shane Hebb said the borough was doing its bit to offer support to those displaced from their homeland following the rise of the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Last month Thurrock Nub News reported on the council's offer of help to the government and it appears that offer has now been accepted.

Cllr Hebb told colleagues at tonight's meeting: "A number of properties have been offered to assist the humanitarian effort. These properties haven't come from the council's housing stock, they have come from within the Thurrock community outside of the council and that is appreciated beyond measure.

"And others are being encouraged to come forward if they think they can support this essential effort.

"The council is clearly ready to do its part. We are working with the government. The council met with the ministry of local government, I think it was last Friday, to help nurture that support.

"As of now there are no costs associated with the resettlement, any impacts that do translate to the authority I will report back on in the future."