A REVOLUTIONARY set of flatpack homes have been installed in Leigh to help homeless people transition from life on the streets and get them "back on their feet".

The six new homes are fully furnished and will include 24-hour support for those chosen to live there.

Southend Council was officially handed the keys to the new buildings earlier this week and are the first authority in Essex to make use of the modular homes.

The houses have been gifted to the council by award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group.

Ian Gilbert, Southend councillor responsible for housing and regeneration, said: “We are extremely thankful to The Hill Group for making this happen and gifting these six brilliant modular homes.

“They are sure to make a huge difference to people in Southend getting back on their feet after facing a period of homelessness.

“Tackling homelessness remains a priority and during the pandemic we offered emergency accommodation to many that were sleeping rough.

“We are determined to continue these efforts and help people off the streets through longer-term support initiatives such as this.” The homes are specially designed, fully furnished and equipped for a single person to move straight into.

They have been built to last for 60 years and have energy costs of just £5 a week.

The Salvation Army will manage and oversee the day-to-day running of the homes.

Major Howard Russell, Salvation Army leader in Southend, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming our first residents into their new homes in Leigh.

“People that are transitioning away from homelessness are often the most vulnerable in society, and here at Malachi Southend, they will be able to adjust to life off the streets, which for many, will be the first time in a long time that they will experience a period of calm and hope in their lives.”

Official figures show there were 10 people living on the streets of Southend as of November last year, however charities insist that number is likely to be much higher.

The new homes in Leigh come as Southend homeless charity Harp continues to press ahead with plans for a new centre which will provide accommodation to young homeless people.

Bosses hope the Bluebird Centre will be fully-furnished and open later this year.

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