RESIDENTS and families at tower blocks in Chadwell St Mary can now use an improved community room and brand-new community pantry initiative, thanks to a collaborative partnership between Thurrock Council and Kensa Contracting. 

The company is installing a new heat pump delivery system in the three blocks and as part of its commitment to the local community has funded and installed the improvements.

Recently residents from Gooderham House, Poole House and George Tilbury House joined cabinet member for culture and communities Cllr Qaisar Abbas, to experience their new community room in George Tilbury House.

Residents enjoyed refreshments, while children were invited to take part in arts and crafts activities.

Housing portfolio holder Cllr Luke Spillman said: "This initiative is so valuable to residents living in these tower blocks. Not only does it give them a respite area when their heating upgrades are being carried out but looking ahead to the future, this room can be used for resident events or offer a warm cosy place for residents and their families to enjoy.

"Residents have also been able to ask questions about the heating project and the work being undertaken, and one of our tenancy management officers was on hand to provide support at this event."

Sustainability director for Kensa Contracting, Ieman Barmaki, said: "Kensa are delighted to be working with Thurrock Council to support the community to transition to low carbon heating inside their flats. As part of this initiative, we have been able to work for the community to revamp the space at the ground floor of George Tilbury House to provide a warm space for all residents to use.

Cllr Qaisar Abbas with a resident at the opening.

"We look forward to meeting with more residents during the course of our works here and hope that in the meantime the warm community room will be used to help alleviate some of the concerns and pressures associated with the energy market and cost of living increases."

A community pantry has also been installed at the tower blocks, offering in-date donated food items and surplus stock from local businesses.

Cllr Spillman added: "The pantry will offer residents cupboard staples that may have otherwise gone straight to landfill. Dates on donated stock will be checked and shelves will be refilled.

"We ask that residents in the blocks only take what they need to ensure everyone who needs support can benefit from the project, and to donate items where they can. On completion of the heating upgrade scheme, we will reach out to other contractors that we work with to help keep the pantry running.

"Thank you to our housing teams who have supported the project and to Kensa Contracting for funding this initiative which is so beneficial to this community."