CLAIMS have been made that contractors have failed to comply with building agreements by not finishing footpaths in time for people moving into new homes.

Basildon Council approved a housing development in Radwinter Avenue, Wickford, with Keepmoat Homes, as long as footpaths and other works were completed in time.

The planning application was granted in July last year to build 24 family homes with site access, public open space and landscaping.

Councillor David Harrison, leader of Wickford Independents, who represents the Wickford Park ward, said that building works to footpaths are still not finished, despite people moving in months ago.

He said: “Keepmoat Homes were supposed to have footpaths and island in the road completed before any occupation of homes and they haven’t complied.

“When the council approved the planning application there were two conditions with Keepmoat Homes.The conditions are the footpaths and the refuge island must be in place prior to occupation.

“People started moving into the houses in March this year. There are about ten homes occupied.

“Either Keepmoat Homes have been slow in their work or the county council has been very slow to approve the S278 agreement.”

The S278 agreement is part of the Highways Act 1980 that allows developers to enter into legal agreement with the council to make alterations or improvements to a public highway, as part of a planning application.

Mr Harrison added: “Council recognised residents need to have a refuge island crossing in the area because the road is dangerous and busy. The pavements are also incomplete and it’s really inconvenient for residents who want to use the footpath.”

A spokesman from Keepmoat Homes said they are in consultation with Essex Highways Department to seek a date of completion for the construction work.

He said: “A S278 agreement was completed on the March 17 2017 and Keepmoat Homes has been in regular contact with the Highways Department since then to agree a date, as soon as possible, for the works to be completed.

“Works have not yet been initiated by Keepmoat Homes or any of its sub-contractors.”

A spokesman for Essex Highways said: “Essex Highways are working with the developer, Keepmoat Homes, to ensure that these works are carried out to the proper standards as quickly as possible.”