CONCERNED residents in Thurrock Council homes that are being renovated have been reassured after expressing concerns about Covid-19 and also the danger of their homes being affected by inclement winter weather.

The council are undertaking a renovation project at many homes in the area of South Ockendon around Afton Drive and Alwen Grove including Dart Green under its Transforming Homes Programme.

The work the replacement of the single glazed windows in each property and the ongoing programme is being carried out by contractor United Living. Residents at Dart Green contacted Thurrock Nub News saying they had not been given a lot of information about the work and they were concerned that workers would be in and out of their homes.

One said: "The first I knew was when they put scaffolding up in my garden area."

On their behalf we contacted Thurrock Council, whose portfolio holder for housing, Cllr Barry Johnson, said: "We understand the concerns residents may have in relation to the works being carried out in their homes during the current Covid-19 restrictions and we have been liaising with our residents and leaseholders with information on these works by either telephone appointment or a socially distant visit from our Resident Liaison Officers.

"The contractor is also providing each resident with information explaining the measures being taken on site to ensure safe working practices in relation to Covid-19. Prior to any works in a resident's home a further appointment will take place again either by phone or socially distanced to ensure the resident is comfortable with the process and answer any outstanding queries.

"The only works that need access to a home are the window and door installations and these are completed in one or two days. They are managed by utilising a single room in which residents reside whilst the windows are replaced in the remainder of the property.

"This provides a safe area that can be kept warm and ensures residents and operatives are appropriately distanced. All contractor and council staff maintain social distancing, wear face coverings and ensure sanitising of hands and working area at all times in line with the latest government guidance.

"I haven't received any feedback from residents about these works but encourage anyone who has particular concerns to contact me ([email protected] - 07831 609714) or their resident liaison officer so that they can discuss appropriate arrangements."

The following works are going to be completed:

• all windows to be upgraded to double glazed PVC-U windows
• renewal of double glazed PVC-U doors
• brickwork repair, replacement and repointing where required
• roof repairs
• rainwater system renewal