On Tuesday 14th May 2019, new social housing was opened on Rochford Road in St Laurence ward.

Comprising twelve 2-bed flats and three 3-bed houses, this new development will help take people off Southend’s straining housing list and into secure accommodation.

Cllr Daniel Cowan, newly-elected Labour councillor for St Laurence ward , said of the new development “I’d like to congratulate the officers on such a fantastic development. They’ve worked incredibly hard to create homes that fit in well with the local area and provide good facilities — the final result is superb. I’m especially grateful to the adapted housing team for their brilliant work in ensuring four of these properties are perfectly adapted for those with additional needs. I look forward to welcoming the new tenants to our community”

The event was attended by councillors, local residents, council officers and stakeholders. The ceremony was conducted by the deputy mayor.

Cllr Jennifer Beck, Labour councillor for Victoria ward, said “Southend is in great need of more social housing and projects like this are a positive step in the right direction in addressing that need.”