WORK has begun on a £9.5million project to demolish and rebuild a sheltered housing complex for vulnerable residents.

Elfreda House, in Iceni Way, Shrub End, Colchester, will be replaced by a larger, three-storey complex, increasing the number of homes from 32 to 36.

Construction firm Kier held a ceremony to mark to formal start of the project, attended by representatives from Colchester Council and the authority’s housing company Colchester Borough Homes.

The works will include the demolition of the existing facility, which is more than 55 years old, and construction of new accommodation.

The replacement building will include 36 self-contained one and two-bedroom flats, with self-contained bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms.

The redevelopment also includes shared communal spaces where residents can socialise, and lifts to the upper floors of the three-storey building.

Kier ambassadors say they will offer work placement opportunities to youngsters wishing to gain experience in the construction industry.

Ian Gifford, operations director at Kier Eastern and Midlands, said: “We’re excited to be working alongside Colchester Council in the redevelopment of this important scheme.

“The new accommodation will benefit the most vulnerable residents for years to come.”

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Paul Dundas, council leader, said: “It’s great news that work is starting on this important development for Colchester.

“The new accommodation will deliver improved, fit for purpose homes for people that need them most.

“We are pleased to work in partnership with Kier and Colchester Borough Homes on this project, as part of our commitment to delivering new homes for the local community.”

Dirk Paterson, chairman of Colchester Borough Homes’ board, said: “The redevelopment of Elfreda House is an exciting and much-needed project to provide high-quality homes to older residents in Colchester.

“It’s well known that good quality housing has a positive impact on a person’s life and the surrounding community.

“Colchester Borough Homes is proud to support the council in achieving its ambitious housing strategy and I look forward to eventually meeting the new tenants and seeing how their new home has changed their life.”

The project is due for completion in spring 2023.

The former residents were rehoused ahead of work starting and will be given the first opportunity to move back in to the new facility once the works are finished.

The project forms part of the council’s aim to deliver 350 affordable homes by 2024.