Colchester Council is nearing completion of four "affordable housing developments" across the city, as it pledges to build 350 council-owned properties by the end of the year.

The developments include Hedge Drive, in Shrub End, which comprises two two-bedroom houses and one two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible bungalow.

Greenstead's Prospero Close has four one-bedroom maisonettes with accessible wet rooms.

A larger development is taking place on Boxted Road, with 11 three-bedroom houses and a five-bedroom property, and Chesterwell will see eight three-bedroom and three four-bedroom homes built.

In Shrub End, the old Elfreda House has been replaced by a contemporary sheltered accommodation offering.

The scheme will contain 36 self-contained flats, four more than previously available, each with level access to bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms.

The council's partner Colchester Borough Homes is set to manage the properties.

Portfolio holder for housing Paul Smith said: "It’s brilliant to see more new homes nearing completion, including the fantastic modernised sheltered accommodation at Elfreda House, and several fully accessible properties.

"We are working hard to stick to our housing targets and provide homes to those in need across the city."

The new additions to the city's affordable housing stock will be let to residents in need.

The developments also have environmental features.

A council spokesman said: "As part of the council’s commitment to tackling the climate emergency, the council new-build homes will be built to Future Homes Standard to reduce carbon emissions and feature air source heat pumps, double glazing, LED lighting and increased insulation levels.

"The new-build acquired properties all have a minimum EPC B rating and properties acquired through the council’s buyback programme are refurbished, where required, to ensure the homes are energy efficient."

The completion of the new homes brings the total to 311 out of the 350 target.

The programme is supported through grant funding from Homes England and the council’s housing revenue account, designated specifically for affordable housing.

Interested borough tenants can find more information or apply to downsize through gatewaytohomechoice.org.uk.