HOUSING councillor Lynn Worrall rolled up her sleeves and got stuck in at a new housing development in South Ockendon.

The development at Derry Avenue sees the first homes specifically designed for older people in the borough for over 30 years. It has taken full advantage of technological advances to promote health, well-being and independent living.

The development has been designed to meet the needs and aspirations of an ageing population. All the flats are double-glazed and are thermal efficient to ensure the warmth and comfort of tenants while cutting the cost of energy bills.

Speaking from the site of the 25 new homes last week, Ms Worrall said: “Derry Avenue is an exciting step towards creating the next generation of homes for older people in Thurrock and it is at the heart of the South Ockendon community.

“The flats have been especially designed to meet the needs of older residents now and into the future and include features such as a ‘flexible’ wall that is easily movable so the residents can chose between having a larger living room or creating an additional bedroom.

“They have bathrooms that can be easily transformed into wet rooms as well if needed.”

“The whole emphasis is on the development being flexible, adaptable and, most importantly, ‘care ready’ – so these flats are able to support the older resident in their home.

“The combination of lifts and wide corridors makes the properties easily accessible and in addition the three blocks will be linked by glass walkways, letting in the light and creating communal areas where residents can see out over garden or the street.”