WORK has resumed on a keynote Thurrock social housing project which should see residents move into their new homes later this summer.

The development is on the site of the former Tops Club on argent Street in Grays, which was purchased by the council and demolished to make way for the building of 15 two-bedroom flats, eight one-bedroom flats and six three-bedroom maisonettes.

Construction of the project slowed down because of the impact of social distancing guidelines on the construction process but Thurrock Council says work has now picked up pace and is on target for completion later this year.

The council's cabinet member for housing, Cllr Barry Johnson, has expressed his delight that work is up and running again and added: "The Tops Club development will provide 29 much-needed high quality council homes for Thurrock residents with plans to hand over the keys to tenants later this summer. Everyone should have a good quality home and Thurrock Council will continue to invest in new council homes for our residents.

"We have worked closely with our contractors Rooff Limited to ensure measures are in place to protect the health, safety and welfare of staff and residents to allow works to continue whilst complying with government and industry guidance. It is more important than ever that everyone stays alert, to contain the virus and save lives."

Mark Horn, Managing Director of Rooff Limited, said: "We are delighted to be reaching the conclusion of this project which is delivering superb accommodation for the people of Thurrock. It has been our first housing project in Thurrock for a number of years, and we have enjoyed the positive and collaborative approach from Thurrock Council throughout this project."

The scheme was recently crowned winner of the 'Housing Schemes under 50 homes' category at the Housing Essex Excellence Awards.